2003 BMW 5-Series BMW 5-Series 2003

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2003 BMW 5-Series repairs by problem area

Engine (43%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (3%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (17%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (7%)

Other (4%)

Chart based on 277 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2003 BMW 5-Series.

2003 BMW 5-Series repair cost distribution

$2500+ (3%)

$1000 - $2499 (14%)

$500 - $999 (18%)

$100 - $499 (36%)

< $100 (29%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 228 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2003 BMW 5-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
Sep 2008 - Jan 2009
Oct 2008

89000 mi

US $600
Front lower control arms/ball joints, rear sway bar links. 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Jan 2011 - Feb 2011
Feb 2011

90000 mi

US $1025
valve cover and oil filter gaskets replaced leaking power steering hose replaced 
BMW 5-Series in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2014 - Oct 2014
Mar 2014

109000 mi

US $180
coil pack bad 
Apr 2014

109300 mi

US $320
Headlight burnt out - ballast was over 300 from dealer, bought on internet for 220, bulb was 100 
Aug 2014

111600 mi

US $550
front wheel bearing went bad $330 for the part $150 for the labor 
Sep 2014

113000 mi

US $560
Third radiator put in the car! 
Oct 2014

113000 mi

US $130
Fan clutch went bad 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Great Britain
Nov 2008 - Oct 2017
Dec 2008

69000 mi

£1000
Hoses failed, not wear: heating and air-con failed as result. 
Feb 2009

71000 mi

£280
Air Intake hoses had come loose and caused EML/emissions notification. Car failed to respond properly to throttle. 
Sep 2009

76000 mi

£400
Parking sensor replaced Suspension bushes on offside rear needed replacing 
Jan 2011

88000 mi

£300
misfiring cylinders, eventually all 6 coils and spark plugs replaced 
Jun 2011

92000 mi

£2300
Worn parts 
Jul 2012

102300 mi

£40
Windscreen washer seize up 
Mar 2014

116000 mi

£240
Front right Brake caliper warped 
Jul 2015

124300 mi

£90
Dead battery replaced 
Jul 2016

132000 mi

£160
Needed regassing Fan not working need new resistor pack 
BMW 5-Series in Germany
Jan 2017 - Jun 2018
Feb 2017

115 mi

€200
Valve Cover Gasket Leaked 
May 2018

130200 mi

€2000
Front Tie Rods 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jul 2015 - Mar 2016
Aug 2015

153200 mi
Shuddering transmission, new fluid and filter fixed the problem 
Jan 2016 Transmission went into failsafe mode after driving thru deep puddle - electrical connector is no longer waterproof and shorted out. Cleaned contacts, dried it out, resealed connection and all is well. 
BMW 5-Series in Germany
May 2010 - Feb 2015
Dec 2013

79360 mi
Front driver window does not open and close 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jul 2009 - Jan 2013
Jan 2010

93000 mi

US $120
Replaced rear sway bar links during a wheel alignment. 
Mar 2010

96000 mi

US $50
Replaced valve cover gaskets to cure an oil seep. 
Oct 2010

98200 mi

US $1500
Replaced shocks/struts/front-control-arms. Normal maintenance at 100k miles (got it done a bit early.) Feels like new again. 
Jan 2012

99800 mi

US $80
Battery gave up the ghost 
May 2012

104000 mi

US $500
Alternator crapped out due to leaf buildup in the air duct leading to it. 
Jun 2012

104000 mi

US $330
Replaced gasket for the oil filter housing. It was leaking. It may still be leaking. 
Oct 2012

107000 mi

US $200
Replaced rear sway bar end-links. They were getting noisy. 
Nov 2012

107000 mi

US $200
Had noisy front sway bar end links. Replaced. Noise is gone. 
Dec 2012

107000 mi

US $800
Redo of cooling system, water pump, radiator, hoses. 
Jan 2013

107000 mi

US $25
Replaced rubber boot between MAF and Throttle Body extension. Had a tear in it in the bellows section. Emissions crapola once again. Thing was becoming a $600/month repair bill. I was tired of getting it fixed (my mechanic was getting tired of fixing it, too). Headlight had a broken adjusting link in it. Windshield rubber gasket was chunking off. Seats had gotten as hard as a rock (and this happened really suddenly...within about a month). 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Sep 2017 - Oct 2017
Oct 2017

90000 mi

US $350
Replaced crank case cover 
BMW 5-Series in Hawaii, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Dec 2009

172000 mi

US $500
overheating 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2014
Feb 2012

100000 mi
Radio goes dead but nav stays on. Then comes back on. On its own. Apparently it is the digital radio that is going. 
Jul 2012

105300 mi
As reported earlier, radio dies suddenly, and comes back on at random. Nav stays on. I disconnect the neg batt terminal and connect it back. Radio works again for a while. Not sure how long this fix works. Refurb dig module quoted at $585. 
Dec 2012

108000 mi

US $740
Battery dies after 24h standing. No idiot light. Said to be alternator not charging. Replaced . OK now. But why no alt light? 
May 2013

110000 mi

US $75
Service Engine Soon light came on. Fault Code P1112. Replace the temp sensor at lower radiator hose. 
Jul 2013

111300 mi
Rear two doors have leaky vapor barriers, water pouring into foot wells. Third time in 4 yrs. Idiotic design by BMW. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Jun 2015 - Jul 2016
Jun 2015

70000 mi

US $500
Power steering reservoir and hoses leaking. Replaced both 
Jul 2016

76000 mi

US $2400
Worn clutch and flywheel. Replacement required Tie rods need to be replaced Dust shield corroded and rubbing against the rotor, emitting a high pitched ting sound upon rotation 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Apr 2010 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

51000 mi

US $3500
Steering rack leaking fluid 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

394-horsepower 4.9L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Aug 2008 - Aug 2015
Sep 2008

54000 mi

US $54
Window regulator died. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Jun 2011 - Oct 2011
Jul 2011

64000 mi

US $140
O2 sensor 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2008 - May 2011
Oct 2008

73000 mi

US $50
Right valve gasket found to be leaking oil. Transmission found to be leaking at drain plug. Air conditioner hoses were leaking. Compressor was whining and A/C made rustling noises. Hoses were replaced and A/C was recharged. 
Nov 2008

74000 mi

US $50
Steering effort was inconsistent under load; dealer found power steering pump defective. Pump replaced and fluid flushed under CPO. Catalytic converter (bank 1) found to be defective (car threw an error code). Replaced under warranty. Driver's side mirror would not retract all the way in (car has power folding mirrors). Dealer installed new outside mirror (ordered, painted, installed) under warranty. Driver's seat belt was very slow to retract. Dealer replaced belt assembly under warranty. 
Jan 2009

75000 mi

US $314
Front exhaust mount (at rear of transmission) was cracked, causing resonance and vibration. Also, rear exhaust clamp was loose, creating a rattle during acceleration. Replaced the mount and the clamp. Neither was covered by CPO. 
May 2009

77000 mi

US $50
Driver's seat recline would only adjust one one side; left side of seat would recline fore/aft, but right side was "stuck". Dealer replaced seatback transmission under CPO. Driver's side lumbar support leaked air, causing the air bladder to deflate over time. Dealer replaced valve. Moonroof rattles over rough roads, freeway expansion joints. Dealer replaced left and right control rails and lubed moonroof assembly. Rattle still present. Transmission was leaking at drain plug. Dealer replaced drain and fill plugs and topped of transmission with 1 qt of fluid. 
Jun 2009

78000 mi

US $160
Moonroof continues to rattle. Dealer says it requires adjustment and replacement of a weather seal. Declined $800 fix. $160 was for diagnostics charge for this and other issues during the same visit. Dealer traced a vibration throughout the rev range to worn left and right engine mounts. Wanted $800 to repair, declined. Oil filter housing bushings were worn out. One of the three bushings failed completely. Dealer wanted $160 to fix. Declined. 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
May 2015 - Jun 2022
Jun 2016

75000 mi

US $900
Master cylinder was replaced due to bad seals. Age related issue. 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010

49000 mi

US $15
Aluminum clips that secure rear sway bar to chassis were broken or cracked. Clips were replaced, a simple job done in my driveway. 
Jan 2011

49400 mi

US $40
Replaced dog bone link on the end of the rear sway bar. Link was damaged by excessive sway bar movement after sway bar retainer bracket broke. 
Apr 2011

50000 mi

US $40
Replaced dog bone link on the end of the rear sway bar. Link was damaged by excessive sway bar movement after sway bar retainer bracket broke. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jan 2017 - Jan 2018
Jan 2018

53000 mi

US $1000
Broken sway bar. Replace spark llugs 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

290-horsepower 4.4L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2013 - Jun 2014
Mar 2014

135000 mi

US $450
The rubber trims on front and rear wind shields disintegrate within 2 years. The head lights do not adjust up/down. Window regulators(not motors)mechanism burn out often. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Oct 2012 - Jul 2013
Feb 2013

160400 mi

US $80
Leaking valve cover gaskets caused slight oil drip on exhaust manifold burning smell. Misfire. Replaced one ignition coil with used one. 
BMW 5-Series in Connecticut, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2020
Jun 2017

157000 mi

US $50
Sunroof rails required repair and readjustment 
Jul 2018

164000 mi

US $50
wires in loom to trunk were frayed, repaired and sealed wires Body control module (alarms, locks, etc.) required replacement. remove and replace with good used part. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010

98000 mi

US $220
fixed 'seat twist' on front passenger seat. fixed 'seat twist' on front passenger seat. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jan 2012 - Apr 2013
Dec 2012

112000 mi

US $350
Oil leak. Diagnosed as valve cover gaskets, replaced gaskets. 
BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2008 - Feb 2012
Jun 2008

75000 mi

US $600
Replace leaking radiator 
Aug 2009

85000 mi

US $850
Overheated. Dealer replaced water pump 
Oct 2009

86000 mi

US $800
Replaced rear anti sway bar bushings and leaking valve cover gaskets 
Apr 2010

91000 mi

US $600
Air Flow Sensor 
May 2011

100000 mi

US $400
Replaced leaking power steering lines Replace leaking power steering lines 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Aug 2015 - Dec 2015
Aug 2015

114000 mi

US $2000
belts, hoses, tensioners, pulleys,plugs, filters 
BMW 5-Series in Oklahoma, United States
Jul 2015 - Sep 2016
Dec 2015

95000 mi

US $41
Power steering line (reservior to pump) leaking beyond repair. Owner replaced line. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2015 - Mar 2016
Nov 2015

152000 mi

US $35
Power fluid top off,DRL bulb replaced. 
Feb 2016

153600 mi

US $40
Replaced "angel eyes" halo light bulb. Coolant top off. 
BMW 5-Series in British Columbia, Canada
Jul 2016 - Feb 2018
Oct 2016

221340 mi

C $100
Expansion tank also failed in this car. Local parts store had one in stock. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

290-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Kansas, United States
Jan 2013 - Jun 2014
Apr 2013

105000 mi

US $825
Replaced front thrust arm bushings, center tie rod linkage and rear sway bars, and accomplished 4 wheel alignment 
Dec 2013

109000 mi

US $1700
Valve cover gaskets, valley pan replacement with coolant tubes, spark plugs, and belts 
BMW 5-Series in Kentucky, United States
Dec 2011 - Jan 2012
Jan 2012

86000 mi

US $52
Replaced mirror glass on both sides. Mirroring was flaking off around edges. Replaced broken oil filter housing support. Power steering fluid reservoir was leaking. Replaced rubber O-ring seal on cap for reservoir. Replaced torn headlight gasket on left headlight. Sent multi information display off to have numerous dead pixels repaired. Received it back and reinstalled it into car. Replaced broken headlight adjusters on both headlights and realigned lights. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Feb 2009 - May 2012
Mar 2009

43000 mi

US $650
Replaced ignition ignitor module for xenon headlight. 
Aug 2009

47000 mi

US $300
A/C stopped working. Replaced blower. 
May 2012

65000 mi

US $470
Replace starter 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
May 2015 - Jul 2016
Jul 2016

124000 mi

US $700
Control arm bushings 
BMW 5-Series in Alaska, United States
Dec 2015 - Jun 2016
Dec 2015

135000 mi

US $4500
Replace timing chain guides & oil separator 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Apr 2011 - Apr 2013
Jun 2011

110000 mi

US $140
waterpump blew up 
Aug 2012

125700 mi

US $200
alternator produced high voltage 
Apr 2013

134000 mi

US $160
Control Arm Bushings needed replacing 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Oct 2014 - Dec 2015
Feb 2015

101000 mi

US $600
Transmission Failsafe Program light. Had this on my 2001 740. Tested battery and alternator; both bad. Replaced and all is well. About $400 for Alternator and $200 for battery. My labor. 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2017
Apr 2013

70700 mi

US $50
Intake manifold flapper valve rebuild-repaired it myself with a rebuild kit-dealer wanted to replace entire assembly. 
Jul 2013

72500 mi

US $245
Pinhole in radiator in plastic part next to upper hose. Common problem, probably a design flaw. Replaced radiator, water pump, thermostat w/housing. 
Jan 2014

68300 mi

US $40
Replaces AC blower final stage resister. 
Jan 2017

75000 mi

US $25
Replace valve cover gasket 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Brunswick, Canada
Mar 2013 - Mar 2014
Jan 2014

81700 mi

C $300
replaced tie rod end 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Dec 2011 - Nov 2013
Feb 2012

94000 mi

US $350
Leaky right side valve cover gasket replaced to stop oil leak. 
Feb 2013

101400 mi

US $523
Bad windshield washer motor. 
Aug 2013

110000 mi

US $268
Coolant hose ruptures spontaneously while car was at idle in the dealer shop. Dealer was checking out the cause of a Service Engine Soon light. 
Nov 2013

112000 mi
Leaking oil due to multiple gasket failures. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2012
Mar 2011

79000 mi

US $300
"Check engine oil level" warning on for months, level detector device stuck or broken, $200 part plus $100 labor to fix, decided not to repair, check oil level with dipstick as needed. BMW advertising $ >> than engineering budget! 
Jun 2011

80000 mi

US $5
Repeated "brake/backup/turnsignal" errors. Problem was corroded/rusted connector to stamped out galvanized panel in taillight assembly. Est. cost of parts: about $460.00, and no assurance it wouldn't re-corrode. I hard wired. 
Dec 2011

85000 mi

US $350
Note: cost of all repairs was $2600.00, but most was paid by Zurich warranty extension I'd bought after major problems under warranty and I was fearful of future failures. Zurich policy extends to summer 2012, may need more repairs. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jan 2011 - Dec 2012
Mar 2011

87000 mi
Oil leaking from below car, traced to oil filter housing/engine block leak. Estimated $750 for repair (parts/tax/labor) @ BMW dealer. As leak is minor, I will wait for funds before fixing, and just carry extra qt of oil. 
Dec 2011

104000 mi

US $500
Replaced rear right light housing, rusted out plug on unit and wiring harness. 
Apr 2012

110200 mi
Sunroof rattles, does not open vertically, only horizontally. 
Dec 2012

124000 mi

US $2600
Clutch died, whole transmission had to be replaced. No external damage, no leaks. Girlfriend's father did all labor for free, saved $2000 Wiper motor and relays need replacing 
BMW 5-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
May 2013 - Jun 2022
Apr 2014

42300 mi

US $450
Thrust arm bushings worn out 
Dec 2014

47000 mi

US $100
Replaced thermostat 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Jun 2008 - Dec 2008
Jul 2008

71000 mi

US $50
Replace torque converter. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jun 2008 - Jun 2012
Jul 2008

56000 mi
Cupholder broke. Front strut bearings replaced due to vibration under braking. Front wipers out of whack making excessive noise. 
Aug 2009

67000 mi

US $1500
Power steering was not assisting very well. Traced to intermittent failure of steering pump. Power window was making crunchy sounds; failure was imminent. Failing parts replaced. 
Nov 2009

70000 mi

US $3300
Belt tensioners needed to be replaced. 
Jan 2011

81000 mi

US $350
Check engine light, codes related to fuel/ignition, also rough idle especially after hard stop. DISA valve replaced.  
Aug 2011

86000 mi

US $2060
Wet hissing sound heard at the end of 30 or more miles of driving. Hose failure related to crankcase or crankshaft. Hose and fittings replaced. Water pump making sounds indicative of imminent failure. Pump replaced. 
Jan 2012

89000 mi

US $250
Fan speed didn't go to high speed manually or automatically. Rear roundel badge looking haggard 
Jun 2012

91000 mi

US $964
Battery died. Got jump start and drove it to dealer for repair. 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jul 2014 - Jul 2017
Dec 2015

121000 mi

US $285
Both belts. Oil filter block gasket, & valve cover gasket. 
Jul 2016

128000 mi

US $1700
Replaced power steering & control joints, I guess. Alignment too. 
Sep 2016

130000 mi

US $450
Overhaul the coolant system. Replaced leaking radiator, 2 main hoses, water pump, & fan clutch. 
Nov 2016

132000 mi

US $393
Driver side window died. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2015 - Nov 2015
Nov 2015

169000 mi
ABS+BRAKE yellow warning lights on, BMW dealer charged $145 for diagnose and give a $2000+ estimate, my local shop said: keep driving, nothing really went wrong 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2006 - Mar 2014
May 2006

43400 mi
Wood trim on dash cracked. Replaced under warranty. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2011 - Mar 2015
Jun 2012

98000 mi

US $600
Coolant leak 
Mar 2015

120000 mi

US $600
Worn out brakes. Replaced pads, rotors, sensors, and RR caliper. 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
- Apr 2008
Apr 2008

90000 mi
This car has been very reliable. BMW services everything 1st 50,000 mi. since then all I spent was about $1,500 - tires, seat controls got loose and a leak in rear door (leaves got clogged in drain area now ok.) 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Jan 2015 - Sep 2016
Jun 2015

120000 mi

US $500
Oil pan gasket. 
Apr 2016

127800 mi

US $700
Bad DISA valve leak caused vacuum leak and misfiring. Replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Feb 2014 - Jun 2014
Jun 2014

215000 mi

US $3400
replace alternator radiator over flow tank, thermostat and lower radiator hose temperature sensor and associated fender/tire shield assembly 
BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Jul 2012 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012

99000 mi

US $1000
DSC warning light indicating that an ABS pump needed to be replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
Jun 2012 - Jan 2015
Oct 2013

110000 mi

US $2100
Thrust arms  Oil filter cover and gasket 
Feb 2014

118700 mi

US $1900
Gaskets froze pulling a vacuum and sucking in gas in areas including exhaust 
Jan 2015

141000 mi

US $1600
Alternator replaced. Leaking thermostat housing fixed. Engine air filter and Oil Change. Front and rear sway bars. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2012
Nov 2011

60000 mi

US $1200
Oil leaks, pan mount, etc 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Sep 2012 - Aug 2016
Mar 2013

123000 mi

US $2000
Replaced the radiator, hoses, thermostat, reservoir tank, water pump 
Feb 2015

148900 mi

US $140
Sunroof rail/mechanism replaced after loss of "tilt" function. 
Aug 2015

160000 mi
Water valve had become stuck and blew hot air through AC system. Replaced item. 
Oct 2015

162200 mi

US $40
Replaced idler pulley. Noise remains. 
Nov 2015

162300 mi
Replaced belts, noise gone. 
Dec 2015

163000 mi

US $1000
Radiator and hoses replaced due to leaking. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Feb 2012 - Mar 2013
Mar 2012

88000 mi

US $900
replace blower motor 
Jun 2012

90000 mi

US $400
intermittent hot start problem. replaced neutral safety switch 
Aug 2012

91100 mi

US $120
intermittent hot start problem. replaced fuel pump relay 
Dec 2012

94000 mi

US $200
replace pulley tensioner 
Jan 2013

US $300
intermittent hot start problem. replaced MAF, gas cap and crank position sensor 
Feb 2013

95000 mi

US $300
intermittent hot start problem. replaced ignition 
Mar 2013

95000 mi
Sold with intermittent hot start problem. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2013 - Feb 2014
Dec 2013

145000 mi

US $600
Control arms & sway bar links 
BMW 5-Series in South Dakota, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2016
Jul 2014

64500 mi

US $75
bleed brakes 
Jul 2015

73300 mi

US $40
Replace blower resister 
Sep 2016

84000 mi

US $500
Replace upper and lower front end control arms. Still have same vibrations. Rotated, balanced tires, nothing changed.Something is out of balance, feel it in the steering wheel sometimes, feel it the whole car sometimes. 
BMW 5-Series in Alabama, United States
Feb 2012 - Mar 2012
Mar 2012

168000 mi

US $12
Oil filter housing seal. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2010 - Sep 2010
Jun 2010

66000 mi

US $3000
service indictor lights erratic 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Aug 2014 - Apr 2016
Feb 2015

185000 mi

US $450
Guibo replacement. Trans fluid changed. Shifter rebuilt. Radiator. Water pump went. Replaced thermostat and above. Flushed and filled. 
Apr 2015

187300 mi

US $185
P2098 rnAll O2 sensors replaced m 
Aug 2015

189000 mi

US $200
Oil filter housing leaking. Gasket replaced. MID pixels burnt. Replaced 
Oct 2015

189500 mi

US $350
Fuel pump died. Replaced assembly as whole. 
Feb 2016

192900 mi

US $500
Replaced shocks and control arms aligned vehicle 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2012 - Jun 2018
Sep 2012

125000 mi

US $200
DISA valve on intake manifold was failing and causing hesitation in throttle response. Rebuilt the plastic parts of the valve with aluminum pieces from German Auto Specialties. 
Jan 2013

128000 mi

US $250
Variable valve timing hydraulic actuation system (VANOS) was worn out and had to be replaced. Symptom was extreme hesitation at low rpm but smooth running above 3000 rpm. I purchased a remanufactured VANOS assembly from Dr. Vanos. 
Feb 2013

129200 mi

US $220
Crankcase ventilation (CCV) system failed resulting in massive oil burning and a stalled engine. Replaced CCV, all hoses, dipstick tube, and distribution manifold. Idler pulleys for serpentine belt were also replaced due to worn bearings. 
Jul 2013

135300 mi

US $250
Secondary air injection system failed and car would not pass emissions inspection in NJ. Check engine light was set. Air pump OK. Exhaust valve and vacuum line were bad. Replaced them and CEL went off. 
Aug 2013

136000 mi

US $750
Front struts and rear shocks had no compression damping and very little rebound damping. Rear would continue bouncing long after hitting bumps. Replaced worn out factory parts with Koni Yellow adjustable suspension and H&R Sport Springs. 
Apr 2014

143300 mi

US $250
Coolant leaking from radiator expansion tank and water pump. Thermostat also failed in open position so car will not warm up completely. Decided to replace all hoses, thermostat, and water pump due to high mileage on this car. 
Jan 2015

144200 mi

US $120
Window regulator failed on driver's side front door. Window stuck halfway up. 
Jul 2015

162000 mi

US $230
Electric fan on A/C condenser failed and had to be replaced. Replaced the A/C drive belt and tensioner pulley at same time. 
Oct 2015

163300 mi

US $200
Left rear window regulator failed and window stuck in down position. 
Jan 2016

165000 mi

US $275
Left and right front upper control arm bushings worn out. Vehicle was shuddering under braking at 45 mph and above. Replaced control arms and bushings on both sides. 
Apr 2018

189000 mi

US $800
Shaking and knocking sound from drivetrain. Driveshaft flex coupling (giubo) and CV joint were both worn out. Installed rebuilt driveshaft and new flex coupling. 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2022
Apr 2018

125000 mi

US $250
valve in intake broken, vacuum, leak, bad coils 
Feb 2022

156000 mi

US $200
Bad ignition coils caused misfires 
BMW 5-Series in Oklahoma, United States
Sep 2011 - Nov 2012
Oct 2011

120000 mi

US $30
replacement pop out cupholder. update: a problem area, will likely replace it again in February. 
Jun 2012

123000 mi

US $83
DISA Valve (intake manifold) found to be inoperative after car lost power intermintenly on highway. DISA was rebuilt with a kit that replaces internal parts with aluminum. OEM plastc part gets brittle at higher mileage. Common E39 fix. 
Nov 2012

126000 mi

US $4
Both the thread and the plastic screw holding the tool kit to the trunk lid broke. Over time the plastic was brittle. This was an easy 10 min repair done in the garage for less than $5. 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Jul 2013 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

100000 mi

US $100
Driver's side tie rod needed replaced; inner end was worn. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in British Columbia, Canada
May 2015 - Jan 2022
Jun 2016

109740 mi

C $300
fuel pump and fuel filter 
Jan 2017 low beam headlight bulbs replaced 
Feb 2017

114700 mi

C $50
headlight balast needed 
Jul 2017

117800 mi

C $500
refreshed tensioners and belts too. they were on their way out, noisy and rough. 
May 2018

125860 mi

C $1000
WATER PUMP FAILED, belts shredded 
Jun 2018

126480 mi

C $1000
key lost sync with car unable to start car new key shipped from germany 
Aug 2021

128960 mi

C $2000
valve cover and gaskets, vanos 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2009 - Oct 2014
Sep 2009

76000 mi

US $25
internal door vapor membrane failed on both rear doors 
Mar 2010

81000 mi

US $820
rear door seal replaced failed idler pulley; replaced replaced head gasket 
Feb 2011

92000 mi

US $750
air mass flow meter failure 
May 2011

93000 mi

US $1000
Ignition coil, $500 Suspension bushings, $500 
Nov 2011

97000 mi

US $550
Thermostat failure 
Apr 2012

99200 mi

US $500
failed radiator oil leak 
Jan 2013

105000 mi

US $60
pulley bearing failing 
May 2013

105200 mi

US $150
dead battery 
Oct 2014

108000 mi
Sold with defective pulley bearing. 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Jun 2008 - Jun 2022
May 2010

60000 mi

US $1000
Front and rear suspension and replaced bushings Leaking value cover gasket Replaced the right rear tail light socket 
Oct 2011

74200 mi

US $1000
repaired rear suspension 
Jun 2015

85000 mi

US $400
Dead Battery Drivers seat would not move 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Aug 2015 - Aug 2015
Aug 2015

170000 mi

US $1000
changed spark plug changed wheel bearing replaced broken sway bar 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Oct 2010 - Sep 2012
Dec 2010

69000 mi

US $1100
Unable to start car. Had it towed to BMW shop to have fuel pump replaced. Part took 2 days to come in. Total cost was @$1100. 
Sep 2012

78000 mi

US $1500
oil filter assy leaking 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2011 - Mar 2012
Dec 2011

88000 mi

US $2200
Intake manifold and all associated crankcase hoses replaced 
Jan 2012

88000 mi

US $500
Replaced serpentine belt and associated pulleys. Bearing in idle pulley seized, other pulleys replaced as preventative measure. 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2009 - Jan 2017
May 2009

43000 mi

US $65
Replaced the valve cover gasket due to burning oil smell. 
Nov 2009

51000 mi

US $100
Fuel purge valve had to be replaced. 
Oct 2010

61200 mi

US $15
Replaced leaky oil filter housing gasket. Was leaving spots on the driveway and making engine compartment very oily. 
Apr 2011

72000 mi

US $160
Leaking water pump. After pump replaced, coolant tank began to leak and was also replaced. Coolant was also replaced at this time with BMW coolant. 
Oct 2011

79000 mi

US $230
Replaced radiator and thermostat. Electronically controlled thermostat housing was leaking, as well as minor leak in the plastic tank of the radiator. HID Headlight ballast quit working 
Apr 2013

102500 mi

US $120
Finally changed my spark plugs and waiting so long probably ruined a coil. I had to replace the coil on cylinder number 5. 
Dec 2013

112000 mi

US $10
Rear door panel seals leaked and water would collect and soak the rear footwells, passenger and driver's side. I had to remove hte door panels to re-seal the interior plastic. Poor adhesive selection by BMW. 
Jan 2014

100000 mi

US $150
Rattling belt tensioner and idler pulley had to be replaced. Repalced belt also. Had to replace the leaking valve cover gasket again. Seals get hardened and oil was dripping from back corner of engine. Burning oil smell from oil dripping on exhaust. 
Jan 2016

112700 mi

US $45
Had to replace the windshield wiper relay. It failed while the car sat without being driven for a while. 
Aug 2016

116600 mi

US $65
The wiper relay didn't fix the problem. I had to replace the wiper motor. 
Jan 2017

116000 mi

US $200
Trying to chase a troublesome check engine light. Replaced the intake boots and cleaned the DISA valve. No joy. Check engine light, most likely due to DISA valve. Never repaired before the sale of the car. 
BMW 5-Series in Arizona, United States
Apr 2009 - Dec 2015
May 2009

54000 mi
Sunroff hardware broke. Had been fixed several times under warranty. Continues to be fixed out of warranty. 
Nov 2009

58400 mi
sunroof lifters broken; recurring problem; fixed for the 4th time 
Oct 2012

82000 mi

US $300
Drivers side rear window regulator 
Nov 2012

82300 mi

US $460
Camshaft sensor 
Jan 2013

83200 mi

US $150
In addition to the serpentine belt and the AC belt, I replaced the two tensioners/rollers and the idler pulley. 
Mar 2013

84000 mi

US $800
PS hoses replaced Oil filter housing gasket replaced 
Jul 2013

85300 mi

US $220
Front psgr door window regulator 
Dec 2013

89000 mi

US $320
alternator was replaced ABS control unit faulty. Sent control unit to rebuilder. Re-installed rebuilt unit. 
BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Jun 2011 - Mar 2015
Aug 2011

71000 mi

US $600
Battery replaced, but not charging had to replace altenator 
Nov 2011

73300 mi

US $400
Oil filter gasket failed causing oil leak 
May 2012

76000 mi

US $311
Service engine light came on, replaced oxygen sensor 
Aug 2013

79600 mi

US $211
Brake Booster filling with water. 
Jan 2014

78000 mi

US $932
Brake booster filled with water and froze up. Replaced brake booster. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2013
Oct 2009

71000 mi
Seal where drive shaft leads from transmission was starting to fail (leak fluid). Discovered by my local mechanic when I took car to him for a comprehensive inspection one week prior to the car going out of extended CPO warranty. 
Oct 2010

78000 mi

US $83
"Service engine soon" warning light came on. Problem traced to leaking gasket on fuel cap which caused a false sensor reading. Problem corrected by replacing fuel cap. 
Sep 2012

94000 mi

US $1050
Vibrations when summer tires/wheels remounted. Wheels appeared loose. Inspection showed tie rods were worn. Same ordered and replaced 

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2003 BMW 5-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jul 2014 - Jun 2018
Sep 2014

138000 mi

US $500
Bad wheel sensor causing pulsing of brakes at highway speed causing vibration 

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2002 BMW 5-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Sep 2010 - Jun 2011
Oct 2010

104000 mi

US $225
Leak around radiator fitting. Was told that this is a common problem with the car. The replacement fitting was off of a Mercedes Benz since BMW does not make it. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

290-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Mar 2012 - Sep 2015
Nov 2012

104000 mi

US $300
replaced both front control arms replaced front sway bar bushings 
Nov 2013

110000 mi

US $200
replaced rear right air bag 
Jan 2015

120000 mi

US $300
replaced rear hatch structs replaced rear window structs 
Jul 2015

125800 mi

US $400
replaced alternator 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2013 - Sep 2014
Jun 2014

109000 mi

US $450
I had one cylinder replaced 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Sep 2015 - Apr 2016
Sep 2015

123000 mi

US $90
Vibration in the steering wheel while braking. The inner tie rod had developed play and required replacement. 
Feb 2016

132000 mi

US $200
Check engine light for one bank too lean. Replaced oxygen sensor. Replaced mass air meter. 
Mar 2016

135000 mi

US $200
right rear window stuck in the down position. I replaced the window regulator. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jan 2009 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010

56000 mi

US $75
Purchased final stage unit (blower motor resistor) to replace existing unit. Haven't had time to install the part yet. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Sep 2011 - Jun 2018
Feb 2015

112000 mi
overflow tank, radiator level sending unit, power steering suction and return lines, oil level sending unit, anti-freeze, oil filter housing gasket, PS fluid, valve cover gasket. 
Oct 2015

123700 mi
clutch assembly 
Feb 2016

127900 mi
windshield wiper motor. Aftermarket motor initially installed but it didn't park the wipers properly. Ended-up buying an OEM motor which was installed and fixed the problem. 
Jun 2018

171000 mi

US $600
oil pan gasket 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

394-horsepower 4.9L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Maryland, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2018
Nov 2010

72000 mi

US $90
Replaced FSU, A/C is now working to spec.  
Aug 2013

89000 mi

US $800
replaced clutch 
Mar 2014

93000 mi

US $700
Water pump froze & broke accessory belt 
May 2014

93900 mi

US $1540
Left Wheel bearing, front drag link. Had 4 tires mounted and balanced 
Aug 2014

96100 mi

US $700
Car battery was not charging; replaced alternator 
Nov 2015

106000 mi

US $1450
Replaced drive shaft 
Jun 2016

109000 mi

US $1200
Replaced main radiator hose, power steering pump and hoses and radiator cap 
Jan 2017

95300 mi

US $1250
Replaced brake pads, rotors front & rear; shocks front & rear 
Mar 2017

111000 mi

US $120
radiator overflow unit replaced 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Jun 2013 - Jul 2022
Jul 2013

73700 mi

US $240
Mass airflow sensor was defective-- replaced 
Jun 2014

87000 mi

US $1200
Air conditioner blower stopped working. Plenty of advance notice, as it had been intermittently squeaking. Repair included 9 hours of labor, as entire dash had to be removed for access Center HVAC vent was cracked- replaced 
Nov 2021

154000 mi

US $1020
Replaced squeaking center support bearing 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Jun 2009 - Dec 2014
Apr 2011

70500 mi

US $837
The built in CD based navigation failed about 6 months ago, finally decided to get it fixed. The nav cd player appeared unable to read any cd. Combined it with BWM inspection 2 so some wear/minor items also replaced. 
Oct 2011

77000 mi

US $94
Muffled rattle developed under car. Turned out to be a sagging exhaust bushing, that allowed the exhaust to bang on a chassis cross member. Mechanic fixed it by just adding some washers to the bushing mount. 
BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2011 - Apr 2016
Dec 2011

70000 mi

US $2500
Inspection II 
Oct 2012

75200 mi

US $600
Replace thrust arms 
Apr 2013

77000 mi

US $215
I replaced the battery. 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Oct 2011 - Sep 2014
Jun 2013

38000 mi

US $380
replace trip computer display due to lost pixels 
BMW 5-Series in Arizona, United States
Apr 2011 - Dec 2013
May 2011

41000 mi

US $610
Replace leaky front strut, $500 Repair leaky rear view mirror, $110. 
Jan 2012

US $300
Replaced thermostat. Thermostat was running cold. It's a 79 degree thermostat. Dash readout showed it running 76-77 on cold nights at speed. Also had soot on the rear bumper, sign of running rich. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Aug 2013 - Apr 2015
Oct 2013

119000 mi

US $300
Clutch was burnt when I bought the car, needed replacement. Also replaced flywheel, rear main seal, and other gaskets for preventative maint. Bank 2 post-cat O2 sensor was bad, causing SES light. Replaced all 4 O2 sensors since they were due. 
Jan 2014

US $500
Throttle Position Sensor went bad, causing vehicle to enter "fail safe mode" with max limit of 35mph and 2500 rpm. 
Oct 2014

121000 mi

US $150
E-box fan and aux pusher fan replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Aug 2016 - Jun 2017
Jan 2017

US $75
Dash cluster had lights out in information board. Required a replacement of the silver ribbon cable. 
Apr 2017

121185 mi
Found a broken tab on the instrument cluster surround, decided to replace. 
BMW 5-Series in Colorado, United States
Jun 2014 - May 2020
Aug 2014

62500 mi

US $2200
Bushings were original and worn out -- shop recommended replacement. Exhaust mounts were loose and rattling. 
Nov 2014

65000 mi

US $50
Replaced the windshield weatherstripping. Original rubber had cracked and basically disintegrated. 
Feb 2015

65000 mi

US $1850
Cracked windshield washer filler hose and malfunctioning washer jet. 
Jun 2015

67000 mi

US $1200
Brake booster flooded with water due to clogged drain and needed replacement. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Dec 2017 - Sep 2018
Jul 2018

124000 mi

US $1000
AC compressor, high pressure hose. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

290-horsepower 4.4L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Colorado, United States
Mar 2011 - Oct 2016
Nov 2011

110700 mi

US $100
Leaking valve cover gasket causing oil leakage into spark plug well. Occasional cylinder misfire as well as odor of burnt oil from oil seepage onto exhaust manifold. Possibly considered normal wear and tear item at this age. 
Jun 2012

116000 mi

US $300
front end vibration caused by bad ball joint on center track rod. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2011 - Jun 2011
Jun 2011

124000 mi

US $1700
Engine noise due to need for valve cover replacement. Was idling rough and blue smoke out exhaust due to vacuum leak 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Feb 2013 - Jul 2013
Feb 2013

91000 mi

US $600
Replaced both front control arms on both sides of the car, also replaced front wheel bearings. 
Mar 2013

95000 mi

US $300
Replaced leaking valve cover gaskets, cleaned and repainted valve covers 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2011 - Mar 2014
Nov 2011

152000 mi

US $1400
replaced water pump and tensioner pully 
Jan 2014

US $235
replace radiator and hoses and expansion tank 
Mar 2014

183000 mi

US $800
replace control arms and thrust arm bushings 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2011 - May 2017
Sep 2012

104160 mi

C $300
Replaced both tie roads and centre link 
Jul 2014

122740 mi

C $800
Replaced front Struts and rear Shocks. 
Dec 2014

127720 mi

C $900
Broken power steering pump bracket. Replaced power steering pump 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

290-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2014 - Jun 2014
May 2014

130000 mi

US $1700
Replaced leaking radiator. A part called a guibo was replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Feb 2009 - Jun 2022
Apr 2009

47000 mi

US $70
final stage unit (FSU) was failing and was replaced. 
May 2009

49000 mi

US $110
passenger low beam out- new bulb 
Nov 2010

61000 mi

US $560
Radiator broken. Replaced with new radiator. 
Oct 2013

79200 mi

US $558
Replace control arm bushings and sway bar links, front 
Dec 2015

93000 mi
replace front struts 
May 2018

105000 mi

US $600
Broken radiator hose. 
BMW 5-Series in Arizona, United States
Sep 2008 - Oct 2011
Oct 2008

58000 mi

US $1700
Radiator went out, very costly on BMW's. 
Nov 2008

58000 mi

US $8
Washer resorvoir was leaking. Went online to view "how to repair" and fixed hole successfully with epoxy. 
Feb 2009

60000 mi

US $800
Repair shop put in new alternator.  Few days later battery dead, took it back, shop said loose battery cable.  Battery dead. Took car to BMW dealer, found bad fan motor plus bushings cost $800. Did I even need a new alternator? (see first repair) 
Jun 2010

71000 mi

US $130
Expensive "xenon" headlight replaced. 
Sep 2010

73000 mi

US $80
Shop added freon to repair problem. 
Apr 2011

76000 mi

US $430
Blew hose, lost coolant, repair shop said I needed a fan clutch. I had them replace fan clutch. 
Jun 2011

77000 mi

US $430
Cooling Fan Malfunctioned 
Sep 2011

79000 mi

US $1250
Upper hose went, I had it fixed.  
Oct 2011

79000 mi
Two weeks later the serpentine belt and tensioner went. I traded the piece of junk the same day! 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2009 - May 2011
Jul 2009

98000 mi

US $340
Alternator 
Oct 2010

117000 mi

US $50
Final Stage Unit for the blower motor 
Mar 2011

122700 mi

US $100
Expansion tank cracked 
BMW 5-Series in Malaysia
Aug 2009 - Jan 2010
Jan 2010

$800
Fixed the front suspension shocks and bushes. 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Jul 2012 - Jan 2013
Sep 2012

124000 mi

US $634
Valve Cover Gaskets leaking, oil separator valve leaking, oil filter mounts broken, oil pan leaking, power steering reservoir leaking, and other minor oil leaks. Sway bar bushings worn causing loud clunk, squeak while going over any bump or turning corners. Pixels in Radio Display (MID) not lighting up. MID unit sent in for ribbon cable replacement. Drivers and Passenger Seat Controls did not work. Seat control cables shortened over time causing cable ends to pull out of the seat control motors. Cables were removed and cable ends were shortened fixing the problem. Wind noise coming from upper dash and A-pillar area caused by missing jack pads behind front wheels. 
Nov 2012

124200 mi

US $80
Vanos Seals leaking oil and dripping onto ground. 
Dec 2012

125000 mi

US $200
Oil leaks from upper timing chain cover and broken air pump hose. 
BMW 5-Series in Missouri, United States
May 2012 - Dec 2015
Dec 2012

148000 mi

US $300
Right headlight was on fire. 
Jan 2013

148000 mi

US $825
Free up RR seatbelt. 
Jan 2014

149300 mi

US $200
A coil was replaced. M42, M50, M60 
Feb 2014

156700 mi

US $224
replaced secondary air valve.  
Jan 2015

163000 mi
Car pulling hard to the right. Tire shop tried to fix but I need to take it to a mechanic to have the ?? (Can't remember name, starts with a C) fixed. 
Apr 2015

164200 mi

US $959
Car was pulling hard right. List of parts worked on: strut absorber, mount strut, broken bolt replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2010 - Apr 2015
Oct 2010

104000 mi

US $200
Cooling fan clutch went bad. This caused poor coolant circulation which ruined the coolant temperature sensor/ control valve. These were both replaced and the car ran fine. Notice small coolant leak over a few weeks. Valley pan gasket was the culprit. Leak too small to justify repair cost. Stick to BMW brand coolant and the leak can be lived with. 
Jun 2011

110000 mi

US $565
Battery light turned on, car died 20 minutes after. Determined that the alternator had gone bad. Purchased alternator from AutoZone and new battery as well (preventative/ most likely necessary as my battery was giving inconsistent voltage). 
Dec 2011

114000 mi
Radiator replaced. 
Dec 2012

121000 mi

US $170
I had to have an O2 sensor changed (bank one sensor one), $70. Autozone replacement radiator failed after one year. Installed new radiator under Autozone warranty but pressure checked before fitting it, $100. 
Jan 2014

133300 mi

US $40
Upper rad house failed. 
Mar 2014

129000 mi

US $80
Bolts/ nuts holding exhaust manifold to catalytic converter rusted off. 
Jun 2014

132000 mi

US $500
Power steering fluid pump and belt broke. Caused overheat. Spark plug came loose and fused to coil pack. Had to remove spark plug and coil then rethread insert into motor and place insert into new spot. New spark plug and coil pack placed into custom housing. 
Dec 2014

134000 mi

US $300
Power steeeing fluid pump came off hinge and belt slipped causing cooling system to fail. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2011
Oct 2009

91750 mi

US $770
both front ball joints @ struts. 
Mar 2010

95200 mi
battery replaced due to continuing need to "jump" the car...baffled a very good mechanic!! Thankfully, battery itself was still under warranty. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Puerto Rico
Aug 2010 - Jun 2012
Apr 2011

64000 mi

US $500
Failed ignition coil 
Apr 2012

73300 mi

US $40
Replaced Oil Pan Gasket 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Dec 2013
Dec 2011

103000 mi

US $225
Needed to replace the valve cover gasket as it was leaking. 
Jun 2012

108000 mi

US $300
Valve cover was leaking and caused the oil to drain which resulted in a diesel sound while at idle. Replaced valve cover, not just gasket. 
Dec 2012

113000 mi

US $950
DSC module needed to be replaced. 
Mar 2013

116000 mi

US $1500
Coolant system overhaul was required. Also changed the fan clutch. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Dec 2012 - Jul 2014
May 2013

160000 mi

US $800
Alternator failed Replaced battery 
Dec 2013

168000 mi

US $1000
Rebuilt Transmission due to reverse drum cracking and the tranny failed to move when in Reverse 
Jun 2014

173000 mi

US $200
Idler pulley cracked, Serpentine belts snapped off and had to be replaced 
BMW 5-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2021 - Jun 2022
Jan 2022

160000 mi

US $800
Replace rear brake lines Cracked coolant line - replaced 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Oct 2013 - Nov 2013
Nov 2013

141000 mi

US $600
torque converter slippage abs unit replacement 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2022
Aug 2010

65000 mi
Replaced water pump. replaced water pump 
May 2011

88000 mi

US $560
DSC control not working.Dealer cost to repair $2200. Part ordered on internet $460. Installed myself and $100 for computer reset. 
Apr 2012

96300 mi

US $500
oil filter housing gasket leaking 
Jun 2012

98000 mi

US $500
Replaced failing thermostat again and replaced 2 belt pulleys and belt tensioner. Changed auto transmission filter and fluid. 
Sep 2012

100000 mi

US $800
front control arm bushings worn 
Jun 2013

106000 mi

US $400
Replaced thermostat and water pump again 
Jan 2015

98300 mi

US $1200
Valve cover leaking- cracked R&R, Replaced spark plugs again Bushings in control arms worn 
Apr 2015

119300 mi

US $500
Thermostat started leaking again. third time it has failed in last 3 years 
Nov 2015

124000 mi

US $450
warning light on-steering angle problem-reset computer dash light on for service engine soon-oxygen sensor needed replacement replace front rotors ,pads and fluid 
Mar 2022

154000 mi

US $1600
replaced radiator all hoses belts and pulleys 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2013 - Jan 2016
Sep 2013

117000 mi

US $1244
Replaced cracked radiator and failed radiator pump. 
Jul 2014

124200 mi

US $2728
Removed and replaced left and right side strut assemblies. Replaced strut mount bearing. Replaced windshield wiper fluid motor. 
Mar 2015

130000 mi

US $250
Replaced temperature sensor for outside temperature 
Jan 2016

120000 mi
Automatic transmission failed. 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
- Jan 2007
Jan 2007

54000 mi

US $20000
ALternator replaced Torque COnverter Replaced Radiator replaced 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Mar 2012 - Jun 2022
Jul 2012

77200 mi

US $1100
replace alternator and fix oil leaks 
Dec 2014

98000 mi

US $150
replace brake light socket 
Apr 2015

101200 mi

US $150
Battery died 
Feb 2016

105300 mi

US $150
Emission system issue not fixed. Check engine light - evaporative gas vapor recirculating likely problem. 
Oct 2016

106200 mi

US $800
Emission exhaust re circulation purge valve, rear brakes,  windshield washer motor 
Sep 2017

109000 mi

US $600
replace mass airflow sensor 
Mar 2021

113000 mi

US $2500
Oil pan gasket, front suspension and power steering rack 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Jul 2011 - Jan 2015
Oct 2011

79000 mi

US $551
The passenger door lock actuator was not functioning and needed to be replaced. The mechanic removed the door panel and replaced the mechanism. $286.94 The oil filter housing needed to be resealed. The mechanic installed a new seal and lubricated the gasket. $263.64 
Dec 2012

89000 mi

US $500
New mass air flow meter was needed, as the old one caused a check engine light. 
Jul 2013

97500 mi

US $2500
Torque converter failing, caused check engine light. Torque converter replaced. Windshield washer fluid pump failed. Pump replaced. 
Oct 2013

99300 mi

US $150
Power steering pump failed, replaced 
Dec 2013

101000 mi

US $1100
Windshield washer fluid pump stopped working. Pump was replaced. Thermostat failed, check engine light illuminated, part replaced Brake caliper frozen, part replaced 
Aug 2014

113300 mi

US $1000
Alarm system sounded randomly 
Jan 2015

101000 mi
Vacuum leaks in a number of components 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Mar 2016 - Sep 2018
Jun 2016

156000 mi

US $2800
Oil pan seal leak, valve cover seal leak Drivers seat power adjustment cables failed. Cables had to be replaced Shop broke vacuum line for secondary air injection system when replacing valve cover gasket. 
Sep 2018

188000 mi

US $250
2 failed coil packs on cylinders 2 and 4 Final stage resistor failure and climate control computer failure resulting in continuous running of heater blower fans leading to complete battery discharge and battery failure. Failed windshield washer hose due to dry rotting. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Oct 2011 - May 2013
Nov 2011

131700 mi

US $700
Replaced radiator expansion tank (again, second time in 3 years…lasted 39 months and 33k miles) and replaced both belts while in there. Was leaking a quart of coolant every day or two. 
Jan 2013

135200 mi

US $1100
oil filter housing gasket leaking; replaced replace power steering hose clamps, which were too loose and enabling leaking replace brake light switch wiring harness for driver seat motor came apart from the switch; replaced switch and related holder panel 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2012
Aug 2011

69000 mi

US $840
Power Steering hose was leaking and had to be replaced.  Coolant hoses had to be replaced as well. 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
May 2011 - Sep 2015
Apr 2013

73360 mi

C $350
seized brake pad 
Jul 2014

80900 mi

C $1700
sway bars for both front wheels 
Aug 2014

81800 mi

C $500
front passenger automatic window stopped working... left in open position 
Sep 2014

82460 mi

C $700
alternator stopped working... warning lights on. Alternator replaced but I had to return next day... faulty replacement. 
Sep 2015

91760 mi

C $500
Relay to starter 
BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Feb 2013 - Sep 2013
Jun 2013

75000 mi
traction control inoperable; steering sensor reset and problem fixed Transmission went in to fail safe mode; car needed to be towed to dealer. Caused by loose battery ground which in turn sent "bad" signal to transmission computer. reset and ok. Coolant Leak. Dealer replaced water pump and miscellaneous gaskets, lines, tubes etc. 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2016
Sep 2011

33000 mi

US $250
cvv replaced by me. Kit cost $150. Dealer wanted more than $400.00 
Oct 2011

33300 mi

US $50
Bank 2 oxygen sensor, precatalytic. Fixed myself for less than $100. Must have computer program loaded into PC and connect to car input for diagnosis. End stage blower resistor. 
Nov 2011

34838 mi

US $120
Valve cover gasket Valve cover gasket change. Was leaking quite small amount of oil. Although less than 35 K miles, is almost 10 years old. Few months ago I had to change the CV valve, but was misspelled as CV. 
May 2012

37600 mi

US $300
Broken radiator. 
Dec 2014

51000 mi

US $20
Oil line to VANOS. Clunk noise made me replace swaybar links and also replaces tie rod boots. 
Mar 2016

62000 mi

US $100
Postcatalytic sensor 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Feb 2011 - Sep 2016
Jul 2011

125000 mi

US $1800
All front suspension components were replaced as well as new rack and pinion 
Mar 2012

136000 mi
The backrest of the passenger side seat would literally twist when it was reclined. High intensity washer motor repair 
Jun 2012

138000 mi

US $2500
P0741 code thrown, transmission shifts fine thus far. quoted 2500 for replacement of Torque Converter that is genuine ZF. No symptoms except slight slippage rarely above 80mph at slight inclines. Will order next spring. 
Jul 2012

138500 mi
Cable came off of driver side seat to raise and lower the seat. The same repair that was on the passenger seat earlier, but just a different cable, will attempt once semester is over. 
May 2014

148000 mi

US $300
Window regulator and motor. Replaced. 
Oct 2014

150300 mi

US $150
Cracked radiator. Replaced with aftermarket radiator. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2015 - Jan 2016
Oct 2015

126000 mi
External temperature sensor went bad. Was showing -40F as outside temp while it was +85F. The AC wouldn't turn on because of that. No immediate need to fix it since it's almost winter. 
Jan 2016 Bad steering angle sensor. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Dec 2015 - Jun 2022
Dec 2017

90000 mi

US $3200
Valve cover gasket replaced; valve cover warping and replaced; moisture in brake fluid-drained refilled; power steering hose leak; replaced accessory drive belt; plugs gapped and reset 
BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
May 2010 - Nov 2014
Jan 2010

62600 mi
Intake manifold 
Apr 2010

64500 mi

US $175
Intake manifold. New battery. 
May 2010

64600 mi

US $900
Replaced throttle body. Had caution light in the middle display. Engine would periodically enter failsafe mode. 
Jul 2010

68000 mi

US $1000
Engine fail safe light comes on, car runs sluggish. Engine electrical wiring harness replaced. 
Nov 2010

74400 mi

US $77
Blower Motor Resistor, inoperable, was replaced. 
May 2011

86200 mi

US $300
Auxillary a/c condenser fan assembly failure. Has power coming to it, but fails to engage. Shop identified the issue, I have decided to fix on my own. The hood latch would not disengage. Pulled the lever inside the cab and the hood would not "pop". Caused the hood to stay in a locked position (would not open). Three cables were found to be frayed and broken that operate this. I replaced the a/c condenser fan. Found instructions on bimmerfest.com 
Jun 2011

86000 mi

US $900
Automatic Transmission fluid replaced (burned due to previous issue, auxiliary fan failure), Camshaft Position Sensors (intake and exhaust) replaced, rear brake pads replaced. 
Mar 2013

115000 mi

US $20
Replaced sway bar links. 
Jul 2013

121700 mi

US $400
Struts and Tie-rods 
BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Oct 2008 - Apr 2013
Jun 2011

79000 mi

US $900
wheel bearings needed to be replaced 
Mar 2012

89000 mi

US $600
wheel bearings replacement clogged drain hole 
BMW 5-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2008 - Mar 2010
Jul 2009

71000 mi

US $1200
Replaced struts, ball joints, and tie rods 
Oct 2009

72000 mi

US $900
a lot of play in the right lower control arm control arm 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2009 - Mar 2010
Jun 2009

87000 mi

US $600
Water pump blew out 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2008 - Mar 2009
Jan 2009

43000 mi
Valve cover leak. 
Mar 2009

43000 mi
Steering rack leaking when sold. 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Sep 2008 - Apr 2009
Oct 2008

69000 mi

US $800
Radiator leak. 
Feb 2009

69000 mi

US $300
Valve cover gasket replaced. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Apr 2011 - Dec 2012
May 2011

68000 mi

US $250
Changed the Front Control Arm Bushings (a common problem in the E39 5 series). 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2012
Oct 2011

101300 mi

US $6000
Clutch replacement and flywheel replacement. 
BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2011 - Aug 2014
Oct 2013

84000 mi

US $20
Both rear doors leaked water during a rainstorm. Removed carpet in rear and vacuumed water out and dried car. Adhesive on moisture barriers had let go (common problem). Used 3M Windo-Weld for repair and is working great. 
Jan 2014

84700 mi

US $28
Right rear window regulator broken on -2 degree day, window would not go up. Found cable jumped track and frayed itself. Easy DIY repair. 
Aug 2014

92000 mi

US $700
Lower coil broken on rear passenger side spring. Found both rear upper control arm boots torn and sway bar links worn. Rear shocks blown. Installed Sachs Advantage shocks (4) and H&R 29742-1 springs, mounts, replacement arms. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Feb 2013 - Mar 2014
May 2013

151700 mi

US $160
Oxygen sensor failed 
Nov 2013

155300 mi

US $190
Fan clutch was slipping and was replaced 
BMW 5-Series in South Carolina, United States
Oct 2011 - Dec 2016
Aug 2012

126700 mi

US $457
Intake air valve was broken. Very expensive part. Diagnosis was more expensive than actually replacing it. 
May 2013

145100 mi

US $1300
I dropped my key just before getting into my car and apparently broke something electronic in the key. Shop told me he had never seen this happen before. Had to have the car towed. A new key is $168 and has to be imported from Germany!! Valve cover gasket, front main seal, oil filter housing gasket replaced. Leaked about a quart every 750 miles. 
Sep 2014

177000 mi

US $800
Replace water hoses from engine to overflow tank and heater core. Oil change. 
Jan 2016

147700 mi

US $1800
New drive shaft Cam shaft position sensor 
Sep 2016

220000 mi

US $200
Overflow tank cracked 
BMW 5-Series in South Africa
Apr 2012 - Mar 2018
Jun 2012

158100 mi

R 550
Clutch was replaced 
Dec 2012

164300 mi

R 1000
Water leak caused misfire. Cylinder head was removed and reconditioned. Gaskets replaced. Process was held up by machine shop being closed for Christmas holiday. 
Feb 2013

165200 mi

R 100
Replaced interior fan resistor pack 
Feb 2014

169260 mi

R 300
Engine overheated, water leaks fixed 
Feb 2015

170500 mi

R 600
Radiator was replaced 
Mar 2018

179180 mi
Car blew head gasket and overheated. It is now off the road, awaiting funds for repair or a decision to scrap it. The head was overhauled before, but the car kept using coolant. 
BMW 5-Series in New Mexico, United States
Nov 2010 - Aug 2012
Jun 2011

85000 mi

US $10000
Replaced due to age - Shock/struts/tierods/shock mounts/strut mounts/bump stops. Owner provided upgraded parts. Parts cost $900. 
Aug 2012

91000 mi
Steering rack leaking - rack replaced Power steering hose leaking Replace worn drive belts 
BMW 5-Series in South Carolina, United States
Jun 2012 - Nov 2013
Jan 2013

US $500
Oil gasket leak 
BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
Oct 2008 - May 2012
Feb 2009

99000 mi

US $500
Failed thermostat, replaced entire cooling system pre-emptively. 
Sep 2010

115000 mi

US $75
The VANOS seals were replaced to correct a engine stumble between 1000-3000 rpm. 
May 2011

123000 mi

US $200
The alternator and the battery were replaced.Both parts were the original ones that the car was built with. 
BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
Sep 2006 - Jun 2018
Nov 2006

30650 mi

US $50
Rubber seal around front windshield replaced due to cracking/rotting. 
Apr 2007

35800 mi

US $73
Final Stage Unit replaced due to malfunctioning climate control fan speed. 
Jul 2007

38400 mi

US $1438
- replaced thrust arms and bushings - replaced passenger seat occupancy sensor - fixed passenger seat power mechanism 
Nov 2007

42460 mi

US $234
replaced faulty thermostat 
Oct 2008

52100 mi

US $200
Replaced valve cover to fix leak. replaced leaky valve cover gasket 
Apr 2009

54000 mi

US $220
leaky power steering hoses replaced 
May 2009

55000 mi

US $70
leaky coolant hose replaced 
Aug 2009

57000 mi

US $500
CCV (crank case ventilation) valve replaced due to clogging/oil leak. 
Feb 2010

62000 mi

US $250
oil filter housing gasket replaced due to oil leak. 
Sep 2010

71000 mi

US $1000
cooling system overhaul. main failed element that triggered the overhaul: coolant expansion tank.  
Oct 2010

72000 mi

US $500
Front passenger window regulator replaced due to window not rolling back up. 
Dec 2010

75000 mi

US $500
Faulty alternator replaced. 
Mar 2012

80000 mi
Sunroof rattle when tilted up 
Jan 2014

83700 mi

US $30
Windshield washer pump failure. Replaced pump. 
Oct 2014

88200 mi

US $350
Water leaking into the cabin through door 
Nov 2014

89000 mi

US $600
Window regulator failed, replaced. 
Dec 2014

89000 mi

US $1200
ABS module failed and replaced 
Mar 2016

94000 mi

US $200
Broken level float in coolant expansion tank was causing "check coolant level" message to trigger despite coolant level being correct. 
May 2016

95000 mi

US $180
Front sway bar links separated and had to be replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2013
Aug 2010

81000 mi

US $250
Failed oil level sensor, causing wrong low oil level warning 
Sep 2012

96000 mi

US $45
Replaced in-dash cupholder. Broke. 
Oct 2012

96000 mi

US $725
Exterior Lights not working, no pattern to failure. Replaced and programmed Lamp Control Module. 
Dec 2012

97000 mi

US $100
Radiator, Water pump, Thermostat. Thermostat was the real issue, other was PM. Replaced Exhaust Cam position Sensor. Check Engine light was intermittent 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Victoria, Australia
Jul 2011 - Mar 2015
Jan 2012

90180 mi

A $312
alternator required rebuilding 
Dec 2013

90520 mi

A $400
Radiator hoses replaced and coolant box replaced 
Feb 2014

91020 mi

A $900
Oil leak requiring new head gasket- $550 New radiator - $390 Both age related repairs. 
Feb 2015

92380 mi
I did have a second coolant box which houses the radiator cap and was replaced in February and outside warranty. 
BMW 5-Series in Virginia, United States
Dec 2008 - Jun 2011
Feb 2009

73000 mi

US $256
While mechanic was performaning a coolant change, he noticed a leak in the steering hose where they clamp. He replaced the steering hose clamps. Also suggested that I replace the rear sway bar links (2) which I did. 
Jul 2009

80000 mi

US $1200
Car won't go into sleep mode and battery dies if not run every day. Mechanic frustrated now on to second shop - still not repaired. 
Sep 2009

82000 mi

US $1300
Problem continues to manifest itself. Have replaced two control modules - one in September and one in October. Replacement of second control module. Hate this car!!! 
Mar 2010

88000 mi

US $1080
Replaced thermostat (check engine soon light came on). Replaced the oil filter gasket (oil leak). 
BMW 5-Series in Louisiana, United States
Apr 2009 - Mar 2010
May 2009

44000 mi

US $485
moon roof not open and close sun visor clip broken driver's window motor not fully open and close. 
BMW 5-Series in Norway
Jun 2012 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013

144460 mi

$100
Broken spring 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Feb 2016 - May 2018
Jun 2016

110000 mi

US $300
Brake ABS module rebuilt 
Oct 2016

113700 mi

US $125
Left door return replaced because of excess noise opening and closing. 
Mar 2017

119500 mi

US $750
Cabin ventilation fan motor bearing. Replaced Fan motor Linkage from electric Motor for automatic movement of drivers seat malfunctioned 
Apr 2017

120000 mi
Recall by BMW - Airbags. Notice arrived after warning light came on. 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Apr 2009 - Jul 2010
May 2009

79000 mi

US $295
vehicle was losing coolant. All coolant hoses were cracked and leaking. All were replaced 
Jul 2009

80000 mi

US $694
radiator leaking needed to be replaced 
Aug 2009

82000 mi

US $527
Replaced leaking power steering lines Adjusted cable in drivers seat Replaced a bracket around transmission that caused a load rattle. 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2009 - Aug 2010
Aug 2009

53320 mi
Replaced control/support arms on both sides. Local roads have many potholes. 
Aug 2010

60140 mi
Leaking power steering hose and one shock when sold. 

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2002 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Zambia
Oct 2013 - Mar 2017
Sep 2015

124620 mi

$200
car just cut while driving and couldn't start again. 

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2001.5 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in New South Wales, Australia
Apr 2014 - Mar 2016
Nov 2014

115820 mi

A $87
Very hot day 36 C in stop start traffic car over temp alarm sounded. Replaced fluid drive on fan. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2011 - Mar 2012
Jan 2012

US $3000
Radiator Struts/Shocks, Ball Joints, Bushings All The Pulleys 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2009 - Oct 2009
Sep 2009

83000 mi

US $3546
alternator inspection II, valley gasket, valve cover gasket power steering reservoir and all hoses, fun fun fun belt tensioners 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Colorado, United States
Sep 2009 - Nov 2015
Oct 2009

152000 mi

US $350
replaced pusher fan after failure 
Mar 2010

156000 mi

US $700
Replaced water pump and hoses Replaced struts and thrust arms 
Dec 2010

170000 mi

US $200
replaced left rear air spring 
Sep 2011

184000 mi

US $1200
Transmission reverse gear stopped working 
Nov 2011

185100 mi

US $300
Intake manifold vacuum leak, preventative maintenance on cooling system 
Apr 2013

204700 mi

US $120
Replaced coolant expansion tank 
Nov 2013

212000 mi

US $5000
Replaced ride height sensor  Replaced heater control valve 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2010 - Oct 2010
Oct 2010

82000 mi
Coolant leak discovered after repeated "low coolant" messages. Fix for problem would have been cost-prohibitive unless done myself. 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2011 - Apr 2011
Apr 2011

116560 mi

C $800
Water pump failed 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2016
Aug 2015

115600 mi

US $250
Valve Cover gaskets 
Feb 2016

117600 mi

US $600
rear main seal 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2016
Dec 2014

103000 mi

US $2000
Replacing entire front suspension And steering. Also rear suspension was updated. 
Dec 2015

113000 mi

US $250
Valve covers leaking slowly. One bad ignition coil replaced. Purge valve replaced preventively. 
May 2016

116000 mi

US $650
Replaced front brake calipers. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Dec 2008 - Apr 2011
Dec 2009

111000 mi
control arm right lower rear 156.00 plus install 213.00 abs module also includes traction control works until temp reaches normal operating temp then lights come on and the system doesn't work price of fi x 399.00 - 1300.00 
Mar 2011

127000 mi

US $150
Thermostat not working heat not hot Check ngine light on 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Oct 2009 - Jul 2010
Dec 2009

91000 mi
rear wiper stopped working, and rear spray pump stays on even when car is off, key is off, draining the fluid. 
Jul 2010

96000 mi
rear windshield wiper and windshield spray pump were out. 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Aug 2012 - Apr 2013
Oct 2012

93000 mi
valve cover gaskets, loose bolts on the manifold motor for right rear power window faulty, replaced with another faulty motor, finally fixed. 
Dec 2012

96000 mi
Appeared to be a continuing oil leak. Mechanic diagnosed it was a slight steering fluid leak - as evidenced by the low power steering fluid level. 
Feb 2013

98000 mi

US $150
steering pressure hose is leaking steadily now alternator was getting noisy, needed replacement hydraulic support shock holding rear hatch has lost compression - won't stay open 
Mar 2013

98000 mi
Radio began to intermittently cut out. Appeared to be loose wiring. Shop repaired with minimal cost. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2022
Sep 2011

110000 mi

US $900
The differential case developed a slow leak, but was in good mechanical condition. I authorized the shop to replace the leaky seal and pre-emptively replace the output shaft seals to reduce the risk of future leaks. 
Jul 2012

114300 mi

US $1130
The front shock absorbers lost their ability to damp suspension movements and had to be replaced. The crankcase vent valve was replaced. It was not causing any problems at all, but this is a known mode of failure on this engine and would have to be dealt with at some point, assuming the owner plans to keep the car for 200000 miles. 
Dec 2014

128000 mi

US $250
The rear shocks were replaced because they lost a significant amount of their rebound damping. The shocks are Konis, which have a lifetime warranty. However, I was on the hook for the labor for installation. 
Nov 2015

132300 mi
One tie rod was replaced and bushings for the tension strut were replaced due to wear. This is the first replacement of these items. 
May 2016

133600 mi
Camshaft position sensor failed, causing engine to run rough. The watertight membrane on one door lost its sealing. The sealing was replaced. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

BMW 5-Series in Estonia
Jun 2017 - Jun 2022
Apr 2018

179800 mi

€40
Worn control arm. 
Jun 2020

191580 mi

€300
rusted brake lines needed replacement, common problem with e39 touring, rear brakes only. 
Aug 2021

194060 mi

€120
Wear item [tie-rod], just replaced. Previous part was there for more than 6 years. Cost includes alignment. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

394-horsepower 4.9L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2011 - May 2013
Sep 2012

88000 mi

US $380
Faulty camshaft sensor 
BMW 5-Series in Colorado, United States
Dec 2009 - Dec 2011
Jan 2010

39000 mi

US $1496
Engine belts and valve cover gasket replaced by dealer  
Apr 2010

40000 mi

US $320
Mass airflow sensors replaced. 
Jun 2010

41000 mi

US $1800
Sunroof won't retract, transmission/driveshaft damper cracked. 
Jul 2010

41200 mi

US $67
rear painted parking sensor replaced 
Dec 2010

43000 mi

US $426
front thrust arm bushings replaced 
Jul 2011

48300 mi

US $626
Oil pan gasket leaking (covered under previous repair), power steering connection to cooler leaking, oil filter housing leaking (required oil change). 
Dec 2011

51000 mi

US $1100
Car shaking violently on any acceleration. Rear U-joint connecting driveshaft to rear differential replaced. Valve cover gasket leaking. Was replaced by same dealership 23 months ago so fixed under warranty. 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2011 - Sep 2015
Sep 2011

89900 mi

C $290
Replaced left-bank exhaust CPS that had failed. 
Apr 2013

102900 mi

C $2600
Had the clutch replaced. As clutch ages, self-adjusting mechanism binds and makes clutch slow to fully engage. Had the rear main seal replaced. Seeping. 
Nov 2013

109520 mi

C $80
Tie-Rod end replaced. OE part. 
Jul 2014

112840 mi

C $180
Giubo replaced. Regular maintenance item on this car. 
BMW 5-Series in South Africa
Feb 2011 - Jun 2012
May 2011

85560 mi

R 7000
Water pump started to leak. 
BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Jul 2011 - Aug 2015
Aug 2011

62200 mi

US $1800
Car was leaking coolant. Tubes on the back side of the engine were leaking. Water pump was replaced as well. Front and rear thrust arms were replaced. Valve cover gasket was replaced. 
Jun 2012

64000 mi

US $1100
Clutch replacement 
Jun 2014

66000 mi

US $400
Differential seals were leaking and thus replaced. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Dec 2008 - Oct 2017
Mar 2008

60000 mi

US $750
Replaced worn/defective MAF sensors, L and R. 
Apr 2012

99000 mi

US $1006
Thermostat and water temperature sensor replacement. Check Engine code frequently reporting engine was not warming up quickly enough. 
Jul 2017

113000 mi

US $200
Thermostat and water temp sensor. Check Engine code indicating prolonged engine warm-up timing. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jul 2012 - Mar 2016
Sep 2012

119000 mi

US $4500
Typical of a car with this mileage the control arm bushings needed replacement. Valve cover gasket also a typical 100k+ mile repair. Other minor items also replaced at that time (coolant overflow tank, 1 brake line), preventative only. 
Jan 2014

US $430
Alternator pulley bearings started to go. Replacement of the alternator was solution. It was fairly straightforward. Cost was part only. I did work myself. 
Sep 2014

134000 mi

US $250
Original radiator cracked. Replaced myself. Took about 1-1/2 or 2 hours. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jan 2010 - Feb 2011
Jun 2010

79000 mi

US $100
power steering hose leaking. repaired by owner. 
Jan 2011

88000 mi

US $400
Brake booster replaced. Brake booster was flooded with water during a rain storm. Drainage hole was blocked with debris and dried leaves. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jun 2017 - Mar 2020
Jun 2017

111000 mi

US $2500
Needed to replace valve position and flow sensors. Replaced all. Replaced front and rear control arms, tie-rods and bushings Replaced inner driver window rubber gasket. It forced window off of track, due to it applying too much force when window going up 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Jul 2010 - Jan 2013
Nov 2010

87000 mi

US $130
Check engine light came on and car was sputtering with power loss. Read codes and got multiple cylinder misfire. Ignition coil #2 was not functioning. Replaced with new one and engine light off and car runs good. Changed all plugs too. 
Jul 2012

91000 mi

US $400
Replaced alternator. Battery light went on. Battery was not receiving charge. Replaced lower radiator hose. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Jun 2020 - Jun 2022
Nov 2020

91000 mi

US $20
Headlight levelers were broken and caused headlight flickering when I hit road bumps. I took the headlight apart and replaced the plastic headlight levelers myself. 
Jun 2021

96000 mi

US $1200
Shocks were worn and soft. Replaced all 4 shocks/struts with new. 
Mar 2022

98000 mi

US $200
Large puddle of coolant on the ground after parking. Replaced heater hose and coolant 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2018
Nov 2010

47000 mi
Failed emissions test. There is ongoing problem with the bank 2 communications sensor. "Check engine" light now comes on intermittently. Problem is likely sensor bank continuing. 
Sep 2011

54000 mi

US $1800
Alternator needed to be replaced 
Nov 2011

54900 mi

US $1600
emission system because of fuel intake gauge 
Mar 2012

57000 mi

US $1200
Replaced power steering pump, pump bracket, clutch slave cylinder supply hose 
Sep 2012

62000 mi

US $500
emissions sensor 
Nov 2013

66900 mi

US $1100
Active oil leak right valve cover. Resealed upper left timing cover. Noise in differential; requires future repair. 
Jun 2014

71000 mi

US $120
There was a small leak detected but of unknown origin. Tests performed, no leak. 
Jan 2016

69200 mi

US $425
15 year old battery finally quit 
May 2016

80900 mi

US $1241
Oil leak - Arm resealed, reseal oil leak at L/Engine Arm 
Jul 2016

83000 mi

US $261
Warning messages: Low Coolant, Brake Light Oil odor continues 
May 2018

91000 mi

US $3000
Busted radiator. Cooling system requires expensive-extensive fix every 2-3 years. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Sep 2011 - Oct 2011
Oct 2011

100000 mi

US $2400
Vanos valve timing malfunction. 
BMW 5-Series in Nebraska, United States
Aug 2012 - Oct 2014
Sep 2012

115000 mi
Alternator stopped charging battery. Replaced alternator. 
Sep 2013

124000 mi

US $50
radiator coolant expansion tank developed leak, required replacement of tank. 
Jan 2014

US $46
Interior driver's door handle broken. Replaced with new part. Broke main engine fan blade. 
Aug 2014

133000 mi

US $100
Water pump replacement. Also fan pulley (attached), and air conditioner belt (separate belt, but easy to do at the same time). 
Oct 2014

134000 mi
Secondary air pump making loud whine for approx 1-2 minutes after cold start. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Tennessee, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

76000 mi

US $3500
Valve cover gaskets, valley pan, vent box Front thrush arm bearings  Replaced radiator 
BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Jul 2011 - Jul 2012
Sep 2011

116000 mi

US $400
Noise and vibration in steering. Replaced the right front lower forward control arm. 
Oct 2011

116300 mi

US $70
Noise and vibration in steering. Replaced the right front lower rearward control arm. Noise and vibration in steering. Replaced the left front sway bar link. Check engine light due to intake leak. Not successful, probably because there is more than one intake leak and I fixed only one of them. 
Jul 2012

123000 mi
Noise and vibration in steering never fixed. Intake leak never fixed. 
BMW 5-Series in Alberta, Canada
Mar 2010 - Jul 2011
Oct 2010

117800 mi

C $600
Check Engine light on - problem diagnosed as Air Pump valve ( part of emission system) part replaced but check engine light came on again in a few days 
Jan 2011

120900 mi

C $600
The clutch in the fan started to howl and I replaced it. 
BMW 5-Series in Denmark
Jun 2013 - Jul 2014
Jun 2014

145700 mi

$50
Nuts connecting exhaust with manifold rusted (totallly gone) and exhaust disconnected from manifold 
BMW 5-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Sep 2010

185000 mi

US $3000
Needed new struts 
BMW 5-Series in Maryland, United States
Dec 2011 - Jan 2012
Jan 2012

86000 mi
Bad tensioner pulley replace radiator hose 
BMW 5-Series in Hawaii, United States
Jan 2010 - Feb 2011
May 2010

89900 mi

US $500
Wheel bearings. 
Jun 2010

90000 mi

US $2800
Waterpump and connecting belts and pulleys went out. 
Jul 2010

90300 mi

US $75
Air conditioning stopped working and I replaced the final stage resistor. 
Aug 2010

90900 mi

US $300
Key went bad. Nav went bad. Replaced with a used unit. 
Dec 2010

93000 mi
Window got stuck half way down. 
Feb 2011

93000 mi
Needed motor mounts, transmissions mounts, and a bunch of other very costly things. Car was a nightmare. All in all it put like 5k on my credit card in unexpected fixes in 11 months. Car overheated after I sold it. Pretty sure it was leaking coolant. No good.  In November the ac started blowing the fuse every other time I drove the car.  

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2011
Sep 2010

80000 mi

US $1500
Defective sensor led to failure of wiring harness for throttle body; also needed to update engine software and replace another emissions sensor that caused lean mix error codes. 
Mar 2011

84000 mi

US $320
Intake idle valve stuck, causing overly lean mix and surgy, low power. Valve replaced, software reset. Required 2 trips to shop.  
Jun 2011

84000 mi

US $500
Same problem as before--loss of power, surgy, unable to accelerate beyond 25 mph. Mechanic finally offered to buy car as a project car for himself. Got at least low KBB trade-in value, and put proceeds to new Audi A4 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2008 - Jan 2011
Dec 2008

138000 mi

US $70
Waterpump on my drive back from Atlanta, the main bearing breaking about 1/2 a mile away from my house in a 1000 mile drive. 
Mar 2009

144000 mi

US $60
Coolant overflow tank. The old tank had a small crack on top of the tank not causing any harm but needed to be replaced so it was.  
May 2009

148000 mi

US $210
Alternator died. The problem started off with the battery not charging and then causing all the systems in the car to shut down. 
Jul 2009

153000 mi

US $15
Oil Leak From Housing 
BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Dec 2009 - Oct 2013
Jan 2010

158000 mi

US $200
Leaking power steering hose 
Apr 2010

164700 mi

US $400
Window regulator drivers window replaced. 
Sep 2010

171000 mi

US $781
Water pump bearing shot and radiator slow leak 
Jul 2011

189000 mi

US $765
Thermostat housing where hose connects was cracked. 
Jun 2012

206000 mi

US $1800
Evaporator leaking (under dash component) Left rear strut spring broken? Replaced spring with junkyard part plus two new struts. 
Jul 2012

208000 mi

US $540
Alternator died. First one to go at 208k! 
May 2013

221000 mi

US $50
Intake side cam position sensor failure. Replaced sensor. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Nov 2009 - Sep 2016
Jul 2010

99000 mi

US $320
ABS module failure. Module sent for re-build. 
Mar 2012

118000 mi

US $200
Replaced center closing panel under the hood and lower windshield trim 
Mar 2013

130000 mi

US $130
Vehicle went into limp home mode. Shop identified a slight transmission leak at the pan and added fluid. 
Jul 2013

133500 mi

US $800
Replace Oil Separator Replace power steering hoses / replace serpentine belts 
Jan 2014

129500 mi

US $100
Rebuilt failed DISA valve with kit from www.germanautosolutions.com 
Dec 2014

148000 mi

US $200
Leaking upper radiator hose, Replaced front driver side wheel speed sensor 
May 2015

152900 mi

US $300
Car was hesitating and stumbling. Mechanic replaced fuel filter and spark plugs 
Jan 2016

149800 mi

US $500
Battery Light staying lit after engine starts, replaced alternator 
Apr 2016

159300 mi

US $700
radiator leaking. Replaced radiator, water pump, theromostat, upper rad hose 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2009 - Sep 2010
Dec 2009

111000 mi

US $120
Coolant leak noticed at a gas station on road trip. Added water several times on way to closest BMW dealer. Dealer repaired hose (had no new one in stock). 
Mar 2010

112000 mi

US $200
Replaced all coolant hoses after previous temporary fix by BMW dealer during road trip. I purchased and replaced 5 coolant hoses and also steering hydraulic hose that was leaking. 
Sep 2010

117000 mi
Sunroof mechanism broke that raises rear edge of sunroof from closed position. Sunroof continued to open and close properly. Sometimes whatever broke resulted in a rattle at highway speeds but opening and closing the sunroof stopped that. 
BMW 5-Series in Queensland, Australia
Feb 2010 - Sep 2012
Mar 2010

60760 mi
Air cond would not work, dealer replaced fan prior to delivery. 
Apr 2010

62000 mi

A $120
LHS low beam head light blew Headlight adjusters broken in both headlights, common issue, fix is postponded but will be done by owner in the near future 
Oct 2010

68180 mi

A $830
Rectify oil leak at the oil filter housing to engine head connection 
Nov 2010

70060 mi
Aircond failed, intermittantly blowing cold and not interior trim on a and c pillars peeling off engine idler bearing squealing after repair service to fix oil leak on oil filter housing. repair shop does not acknowledge the issue blaming age of the car 
Sep 2011

81840 mi

A $100
Air con fan failed. Traced to the final stage resistor, replaced with new one off Ebay 
Dec 2011

88040 mi

A $300
A/C fan blowing intermittantly. recently replaced part developed fault. A/C drive belt tensioner bearing becoming noisy again, 12 months after last replacement. 
May 2012

92160 mi
Idler pulley bearing for serpentine belt has failed again. Windscreen washer bottle has broken and no longer holds water. Result of driving over rough road 
Jun 2012

94240 mi

A $823
Opted to repair noisy belt pulley, also found leaking radiator expansion tank and hoses 
Sep 2012

94240 mi
Windscreen washer bottle had broken and no longer held water. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Sep 2013 - Sep 2015
Feb 2014

134000 mi

US $650
replaced two heater pipes which are located beneath the intake manifold 
Sep 2014

135000 mi

US $500
replaced 4 rear control arms, front struts and stabilizer bar link pins 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Jan 2015 - Jan 2015
Jan 2015

141000 mi

US $1000
HeadGasket and Cooling System broke. HeadBolt threads stripped in M54 engine block. Temporary fix of new threads. Will eventually need to replace block. 
BMW 5-Series in Malaysia
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

142600 mi

$800
Automatic transmission oil sump leak. I sent the automatic gearbox for to perform a "re-conditioning" by changing affected seals with new. Seem OK so far now. 
BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
- Jun 2017
Jun 2017

108000 mi

US $1200
Replace leaking radiator 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Mar 2016 - Jun 2016
Mar 2016

118000 mi

US $120
The belt tensioner and pulley needed to be replaced. It was making squeaking noise. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Nov 2012 - Jan 2013
Nov 2012

131000 mi
Year ago: valve cover gaskets,brake sensor,radiator, upper rear ball joints, oil filter housing gasket,cyclone separator with hoses.replaced leaking suction and return power steering hoses,replaced both axle seals,replaced fuel filter,injector system. Year ago: injection system cleaning service,replaced expansion tank and vent hose. 
Jan 2013

139000 mi

US $76
Upstream bank one. Sensor one o-2 sensor 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Jan 2012 - Nov 2012
Jun 2012

122000 mi

US $758
Replaced a tie rod end and a lower control arm with bushings. Front end alignment too. 
Jul 2012

124000 mi

US $96
ABS/DSC module failed. A rebuilding company fixed the problem and provided a lifetime warranty on the repair. 
Sep 2012

128000 mi

US $40
Replaced leaking valve cover gasket. 
BMW 5-Series in South Carolina, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2011
Jan 2011

US $208
Expansion tank exploded (and disabled the vehicle). Lost all coolant. Indy replaced expansion tank, problem solved. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Dec 2010 - Sep 2015
Dec 2014

154000 mi

US $635
Had the primary and secondary water pumps replaced - leaking. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

225-horsepower 3.0L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2010 - Jun 2018
Jan 2013

136720 mi

C $250
Thermostat stuck open; Engine running colder than expected. Replaced Thermostat and flushed/replaced Coolant. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2008 - Feb 2015
Aug 2010

94000 mi

US $100
Leak in radiator. Replaced whole cooling system. Window Lifter/Regulator broke. 
Sep 2011

105000 mi

US $100
Weak driver's side door lock actuator. 
Aug 2012

111500 mi

US $700
Front control arm bushing leaking hydraulic fluid. Both were replaced. It caused vibrations when braking. Valve cover leaking oil due to slightly warped PLASTIC valve cover. Despite replacing the valve cover gasket at 100k miles as preventative, it leaked 11k miles later. The leak was small. 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Feb 2011 - Mar 2012
Mar 2011

153000 mi

US $2400
Alternator failed, causing stop at nearest convenience within 20 miles. Auto towed to dealership. Alternator replaced, battery replaced, front pads and rotors, service II,  
Mar 2012

161000 mi

US $800
Oil Leaks, small. Valve cover gasket, right rear. RR gasket on oil filter mounting piece 
BMW 5-Series in Indiana, United States
Apr 2015 - Jun 2015
Apr 2015

130000 mi

US $1000
thermostat failed and it was an OEM part about 2 yrs old vacuum leak 
BMW 5-Series in South Carolina, United States
Jul 2015 - Sep 2017
Sep 2015

166000 mi

US $2990
New clutch. No issue I could identify - i.e. it seemed to work fine. Mechanic said it was a mechanical issue - throwout bearing sounds like it may be right. hoses for windshield washer were replaced 
Nov 2015

166050 mi

US $900
valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket 
Sep 2017

180000 mi
Major coolant leak with subsequent warped head. Car was deemed no longer worthy to fix and sent off to pasture. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

184-horsepower 2.5L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Sep 2009 - Apr 2016
Oct 2009

60000 mi

US $1000
control arms worn and replaced along with sway bars. 
Dec 2009

61000 mi

US $120
SES light for Cam Shaft Postion sensor exhaust side. Was present when car was purchased however light was intermittent and finally got around to replacing. Self installed, though typically a easy job, very hard to loosen the bolt. 
Jan 2010

71000 mi

US $130
Had small leak from lower radiator hose. Had to replace sensor and the hose, and refill coolant. 
Apr 2010

61800 mi

US $620
Upper Control arms replaced with new ones with HD bushings in place of the OEM. The car had some vibration at speed, with shuddering while braking at times. 
Jul 2011

72000 mi

US $1230
Oil filter housing gasket and VANOS seals leaking. Also as PM replaced CCV (discovered to be on way out) with all associated hoses and air distribution piece, Valve Gasket, Dip stick tube o ring, and upper timing cover gasket. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
May 2011 - Dec 2011
Jun 2011

110000 mi

US $100
windshield washer pump failed and was replaced 
Oct 2011

112300 mi

US $2500
door actuator drivers side failed 
Dec 2011

114000 mi

US $800
Significant engine oil leak from gasket and hose below oil filter.  Power steering fluid from power steering hoses. 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Aug 2011 - Jun 2018
Oct 2011

144000 mi

US $658
Rough idling...crankcase vent valve and appropriate hoses replaced. 
Dec 2013

170000 mi

US $1168
Light oil leak, and Check Engine light on. Replaced Valve cover gasket replace & Crankcase Vent Valve: Crankcase vent valve, 2 breather hoses, breather hose return, oil separator hose. 
Nov 2015

187000 mi

US $2782
Transmission warning light and vehicle was shifting rougher then normal. A bad "Mass Air Flow Sensor" was diagnosed as cause. Replaced sensor. No obvious symptoms, but SES produce codes related to upper thermostat. (Thermostat and housing replaced). Codes indicated lean banks 1 & 2. Replaced Crank case vent system. (typical in the 2001 525i BMW E39/M54 eng models) Found oil leaks. Replaced oil filter stand gasket & Valve Cover gasket. 
Jul 2016

190300 mi

US $350
Water-Pump went bad & replaced.  Power Steering reservoir leaking. Replaced. Additional preventive maint items: Fan-clutch, Main Serpentine Belt, A/C Belt, A/C tensioner, main alternator tensioner, Water-Pump Pulley. 
Dec 2017

199055 mi

US $50
Replaced ignition coil... 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4-door

supercharged 8-cylinder manual 2WD

BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Jul 2009 - Mar 2010
Aug 2009

90000 mi

US $500
No sound from stereo 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4-door

8-cylinder manual 2WD

BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Nov 2008 - Apr 2009
Dec 2008

87000 mi

US $450
Replaced windshield washer pump and squirter. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2008 - Mar 2010
Jun 2009

105000 mi

US $800
clunking in front suspension 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Jul 2009 - Mar 2010
Sep 2009

102000 mi

US $674
Replace cam position sensor R&R Thermostat, pressure test cooling system for leaks. Test effectiveness of antifreeze protection. Replace o-ring, thermostat and coolant 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4-door

8-cylinder automatic 2WD

BMW 5-Series in Maryland, United States
Jan 2014 - Jan 2014
Jan 2014

113000 mi

US $150
Coolant System Radiator hoses 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
Feb 2009 - Mar 2010
Mar 2009

121000 mi

US $1650
ABS controller needed to be replaced. DISC (VANOS) air valve failing. 

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2001 BMW 5-Series 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Jan 2010

US $3200
Adaptive headlights required repair. Water pump failed. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series

Engine not specified

BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2011 - Dec 2012
Dec 2012

107000 mi

US $300
seat belt broken 
BMW 5-Series in Great Britain
Dec 2009 - Jan 2010
Jan 2010

137000 mi

£300
Vibration at speeds over 70 mph 
BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
May 2016 - May 2016
May 2016

181000 mi

US $80
Changed the ignition coils and sparkplugs. Had ses light for a misfire on cylinder 4 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Jun 2010 - Apr 2011
Sep 2010

79000 mi

US $670
Front control arms, ball joints, bushings Ignition switch 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2011
Dec 2011

160000 mi

US $300
Rear airbags started to leak - needed to replace 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2012 - Dec 2012
Dec 2012

166000 mi
code was on, had 2 bad coils 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Mar 2017 - Aug 2018
Jan 2018

126000 mi

US $600
Replaced radiator, expansion tank, and all hoses. It's a BMW, plastic cooling systems need periodic replacement. The nipple on the driver side radiator tank was leaking. Plastic fatigue was indicated so replaced all cooling system parts containing plastic. 
Feb 2018

127000 mi

US $600
Alternator failed. 
Mar 2018

128 mi

US $250
Belt tensioner bearings seized. 
Jun 2018

129000 mi

US $200
Car was overheating due to thermostat being stuck closed. It MIGHT be related to a recent radiator replacement. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Oct 2011 - Oct 2012
Nov 2011

163500 mi

US $1850
Replace fan clutch Replace both front strut assemblies; Remove upper thrust arms and press in new bushings; Replace left rear sway bar link. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Apr 2009 - Jul 2012
Jun 2009

80000 mi

US $500
Rear suspension airbags. 
Mar 2012

93000 mi

US $300
Replaced front pass window regulator 
Jul 2012

94000 mi

US $500
Radiator replacement. Small crack around the top, but no leak yet. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Wagon

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 4-speed automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Estonia
Oct 2012 - Nov 2012
Nov 2012

204600 mi

€1270
turbo charge unit (renovated 570€) fuel filter passenger cabin ventilator 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Aug 2010 - Sep 2012
Dec 2010

62000 mi
Replaced Exhaust Cam Sensor. Repl Pass Seat Belt, BMW Insp I, II & Flush: Coolant, Transmission Fluid/Filter, Brake Fluid. Plugs, Engine Air & Cabin Filters, Oil & Filter. 4 New Continental DWS Tires, New BMW Rubber Mats, New Emergncy Reflctr, Glovebox Flashlt, Manual 
Nov 2011

66300 mi

US $91
Car began heating in stop & go traffic. Replaced fan clutch. Also replaced upper tensioner, upper idler pulley and both serpentine belts as they showed wear & bearings were making slight noise when spun. 
Sep 2012

70000 mi
8/6 to 9-26-2012, Coolant Flush, Then: 1.Radiator hose blew, repaired. 2.Plastic Bleeder Screw broke, replaced. 3. Battery failed, replaced. 4. Coolant drip appeared, pressure test located. 5. Traded the BMW for 2003 SAAB Aero Wagon 9/26. 
BMW 5-Series in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Feb 2018

260000 mi

US $100
Replaced ballast 
BMW 5-Series in Maryland, United States
Feb 2015 - Jan 2016
Mar 2015

154000 mi
Battery replaced, car has a battery drain. In cold weather, it will not start after sitting overnight. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

394-horsepower 4.9L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in Utah, United States
Jun 2011 - Aug 2011
Aug 2011

61000 mi
Radiator tank cracked 
BMW 5-Series in Florida, United States
Aug 2011 - Jan 2012
Dec 2011

90000 mi

US $60
rubber breather tubes replaced 
Jan 2012

90000 mi

US $1000
cam position sensor needed replacement 
BMW 5-Series in Georgia, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2014
Nov 2013

130500 mi

US $1250
I had to replace CAM sensors and fix secondary air mass flow error message. 
Jan 2014

131000 mi

US $585
The thermastat needed to be replaced and installed. 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Aug 2017 - Sep 2018
Jun 2017

148000 mi

US $1200
This model has self-leveling headlights (installed by previous owner) and I had to have BMW reset these so that they did not level to a position that would blind oncoming drivers. It's not a difficult job but requires shop equipment to do properly on this vehicle. 
BMW 5-Series in Maryland, United States
Apr 2009 - Sep 2018
Mar 2011

105000 mi

US $2000
There were two gripes repaired during this trip. The first was a dead regulator (power window motor) on the back seat passenger door ($800), and the other was dying (many dead pixels) driver info display in the dash. 
Dec 2011

110000 mi

US $110
Rear anti-sway bar bracket replacement (OEM units cracked) 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Dec 2009 - Jun 2015
Jul 2010

110000 mi

US $720
Replaced guibo/flex disk. 
Apr 2011

118700 mi

US $2700
EVAP Purge valve defective. This is apart of the emissions system that allows the car to purge gas into a charcoal canister. This does not play a role in the car's performance/drive-ability. 
Apr 2012

137500 mi

US $120
Broken Shift lever joint. Car functioned normally and was driveable, but shifter could pull out easily like a dislocated joint. 
Sep 2012

142000 mi

US $1500
DSC pump short. DSC module repair 
Jun 2013

160000 mi

US $400
Fuel pump failure 
Dec 2013

171000 mi
Replace radiator due high range of operating temperature. CV Joint on axle worn. Broken exhaust mounts 
BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
May 2018 - Jun 2022
Sep 2018

111000 mi
Missing left side link - replaced links and sway bar. Asymptomatic. Small ping noise coming on load/unload of drivetrain. Replaced driveshaft and flex disc. Flex disc was preventative. Seatbelt replaced. Squeaking noise when car got warm. Front struts, bearings and mounts. Struts were preventative, but they have to come off to get to the mounts... 
Jul 2021

114000 mi

US $2500
Steering center link damaged by PO repair of alternator - joint on link was frozen due to short out. Replaced center link. 
BMW 5-Series in Illinois, United States
Oct 2010 - Nov 2016
Sep 2011

85000 mi

US $70
Exhaust sensor bank 2. Replaced sensor. Cleared Service Engine Soon light with code reader. Replaced blower resistor after blower stopped functioning. Blower now functions perfectly.  
Jan 2013

92000 mi

US $130
Exhaust camshaft position sensor, driver's side. 
Jan 2015

97200 mi

US $125
Starter 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Apr 2017 - Jun 2018
Mar 2017

157629 mi

US $12500
Clutch, transmission mounts, and rear main seal replaced. Pinion seal on driveshaft, drive belts on engine, and a windshield washer motor were also replaced. 
Oct 2017

162300 mi

US $150
Thermostat showed inconsistent readings, so replacement of thermostat and o-rings and seals were preventative. 
Nov 2017

162400 mi

US $25
Headlight adjusters on the e39 cars will often fail due to brittle plastic. Repair kits are available on Amazon and ebay, but replacement of the adjuster is difficult, as it involves completely disassembling the entire headlight assembly. Pre-2001 5-Series have more easily serviceable clamshell headlights. Post 2001 models must be heated along a seam to gain access to the internals of the headlight for replacing the adjuster. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 6-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in New York, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2011
Sep 2010

143000 mi

US $130
sway bar link replaced 
Nov 2011

149000 mi

US $170
Steering angle sensor replaced Water pump bearings leaking, installed new 
BMW 5-Series in Texas, United States
Mar 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

97000 mi

US $710
Failed water pump while driving - resulted in loss of all drive belts and driven accessories (power steering, etc.). Replaced leaking valley pan gasket during repair. Replaced valve cover gaskets. Leaking gaskets resulting in burning oil smell, smoke on startup, and failing ignition coils. Replaced thrust arms in attempt to fix creaking while rolling (unsuccessful). However, replacement did eliminate the "55 mph shimmy" the car experienced. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Sep 2010 - Nov 2011
Dec 2010

104000 mi

US $1300
Entire cooling system replaced - radiator cracked, water pump leaking, and hoses leaking. Decided to replace all faulty components during this repair. Water pump had been noted leaking for nearly 30,000 miles before failure. 
May 2011

112000 mi
Coolant overflow tank cracked. Repaired under warranty from shop. 
Nov 2011

117000 mi
Starter motor failed, and car would not start. Was able to obtain help with push starting. Sold car without repairing issue. 
BMW 5-Series in Washington, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Feb 2018

136000 mi

US $3000
Repaired oil leak 
BMW 5-Series in Vermont, United States
Feb 2012 - Jul 2012
Mar 2012

176000 mi

US $325
ABS Control Module needed replacement 650.00 
BMW 5-Series in Minnesota, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2012
Dec 2011

169000 mi

US $170
Replaced Radiator (2nd one since purchasing) 
Jan 2012

170000 mi

US $100
Replaced Failed Coil. Replaced Spark Plugs. Replaced Spark Plug Connectors. 
BMW 5-Series in Wisconsin, United States
Nov 2009 - Jul 2012
Mar 2010

102000 mi

US $1000
"cooling system overhaul" Radiator, fan, clutch, all related hoses, expansion tank, t-stat, water pump and pulley. also replaced belts and belt tensioner. 
Jul 2012

145000 mi

US $400
Heater control valve was stuck open, the auxiliary pump/heater control valve system was replaced. It was quite easy with smaller hands. 
BMW 5-Series in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2011 - Dec 2014
Mar 2011

91760 mi

C $1200
Steering wheel was vibrating after applying brakes. I was told the vehicle needed new set of front control arm bushings.  Mechanic discovered that the driver side front brake caliper was stuck and pads were rubbing on the rotor. The front driver side brake caliper and both front pads were replaced. The steering wheel would vibrate as if the wheels were out of balance at speeds between 40-50 miles. Mechanic identified the problem as the lower controller arm bushings, the parts were ordered and replaced. Problem no longer exists. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in Ohio, United States
May 2009 - Jun 2011
Sep 2009

107000 mi

US $1800
Leak in power steering hoses. Also had a flat tire. We needed to replace tires anyway. 
Mar 2011

127000 mi

US $2500
Coolant galley leaking. Fuel injection system had to have service. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Feb 2010 - Jul 2010
Mar 2010

166000 mi

US $20
Misfire. Injector connector loose. 
BMW 5-Series in Oregon, United States
Jan 2011 - Oct 2011
Feb 2011

134000 mi
The cooling system was replaced which included the hoses, clamps, and radiator. TSB. This is very common with this 5 series. Valve cover gaskets replaced. Airmass flow indicator was replaced. All items in this series were replaced prior to owner taking possession of new (to me) vehicle. 
Mar 2011

135000 mi
Head gasket bolt had come loose and was causing a small leak and an oil smell under hard driving. Re-tightened. Appears fine. 
Aug 2011

138000 mi
Slight oil leak under engine - looks to be a oil pan gasket. Decided to live with it for the time being. Low volume leak. 
Oct 2011

138000 mi
Sold with slight oil leak under engine. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

282-horsepower 4.4L V8 5-speed automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2018
Apr 2014

162200 mi

US $3500
Timing system replaced, valley pan coolant leak fixed, VANOS valve timing rebuilt 
May 2014

162600 mi

US $350
Thrust arm bushings required replacement to fix front end shake. 
Jun 2014

163000 mi

US $40
Fixed stuck calipers 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2015
Dec 2010

88000 mi
Front wheel bearings changed out 
Sep 2011

95000 mi

US $2200
Replaced alternator, outside temperature sensor. Suspension bushings.  Also installed new interior fender well panels. 
Sep 2012

103000 mi

US $570
Car went in for coolant leak and new water pump. After work was completed and started for test a drive it was misfiring and running rough. The tech pulled all the spark plugs and found coolant in one cylinder.A camera showed a cracked wall!! 
BMW 5-Series in Oklahoma, United States
Jul 2014 - Jun 2018
Feb 2015

221700 mi

US $2900
Replace timing chain, timing chain guides, VANOS Solenoids, VANOS units, various seals and gaskets, as well as timing chain tensioner 
Mar 2015

224000 mi

US $750
Coolant pipe ruptured. Had to be special ordered hence the amount of days in shop. Also had rear main seal replaced and one power steering hose replaced. 
May 2018

259000 mi

US $550
Passenger Window Regulator replaced. Right rear door seal replaced. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2010 - May 2011
May 2010

113000 mi

US $500
Minor radiator leak discovered during brake maintenance 
Jun 2010

114000 mi

US $100
Fluid leak - minor 
May 2011

116000 mi
Slight transmission leak when sold. 
BMW 5-Series in California, United States
Aug 2012 - Aug 2015
Jun 2015

175000 mi

US $500
valve cover gaskget leak belt changes 
BMW 5-Series in New Hampshire, United States
Dec 2011 - Mar 2015
Oct 2012

144500 mi

US $335
Idler pulley tensioner broke causing serpentine belt to snap resulting in loss of power steering, alternator and a/c. 
Jul 2014

155300 mi

US $409
Replaced leaking oil stand gasket 
BMW 5-Series in Quintana Roo, Mexico
May 2009 - Dec 2019
Aug 2009

64480 mi

$400
Blown radiator bleed screw. This is a common E39 problem. The screw is hollow plastic and the center will blow out. Also service. 
Sep 2009

64480 mi

$250
leaking brake hose 
Nov 2009

65380 mi

$500
Blown radiator; weakened earlier. 
Mar 2011

73780 mi

$1500
Mass airflow sensor failed. Replaced.  Also 2 power steering pump hoses, oil and filter change, coolant change. 
Aug 2012

77900 mi
Broken steel brake line. Replace section to caliper. Air vent screw in cooling system split. 
Jan 2013

79980 mi

$120
Replace left front wheel speed sensor. 
Jun 2013

83700 mi
ABS/DSC control module pulled, sent to rebuilder, returned, re-installed. 
Aug 2013

84100 mi
Replaced left front speed sensor 
Nov 2013

84200 mi

$100
Replace dual input temperature switch. replace wheel well liners. had become brittle and cracked in the hot, humid, salty climate of coastal Mexico. 
Jan 2015

85740 mi

$250
Both drive belts, 2 pulleys, oil change & filter. 
Jun 2015

90520 mi

$265
Alternator failed. Could not be rebuilt. Bought a new one. 
Jun 2018

92380 mi

$100
Right-rear wheel bearing was getting noisy. Had to replace the rear window lift, passenger side  and the lock actuator, same side and door. 

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2000 BMW 5-Series 4dr Sedan

193-horsepower 2.8L I6 5-speed manual RWD

BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2009 - Dec 2012
Sep 2010

70000 mi

US $800
replaced water pump/pulley/ac pulley/all fan belts/oil&filter 
BMW 5-Series in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2012 - Mar 2013
Sep 2012

248000 mi

US $50
replaced valve cover gasket 
Mar 2013

255000 mi

US $525
voltage regulator failed; requires replacement of alternator 
BMW 5-Series in Michigan, United States
Nov 2010 - Feb 2015
Sep 2011

145000 mi

US $50
LH Lower ball joint worn. This happens about every 50000 miles and causes a severe brake shimmy. The ball joints need frequent replacement on this vehicle. 
Jan 2012

158700 mi

US $45
Replaced left rear lower ball joint due to wear. Replaced right rear wheel speed sensor. Was corroded and non functional. 
Jul 2012

147300 mi

US $30
Stabilizer bar end link pounded out and rattling. Replaced link and it is like new. 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2011 - Oct 2014
Jul 2012

91000 mi

US $900
Auxillary fan found not to be working. Whole assembly replaced. One of the pulley bearings was making a screeching noise at start-up and occasionally. Replaced. 
Sep 2012

94000 mi

US $650
Front thrust arm (upper control arm) and sway bar link end bushings worn. All four bushings were replaced along with the bars. Power steering hose leaking. Replaced, fluid flushed. 
Jan 2013

98000 mi

US $250
Slow leak in valve cover gasket resolved. It wasn't even causing a drop but it was there and this allowed a peak into the engine (looks clean!). Also had spark plugs and oil change done while at it (that cost is not included in above). 
Sep 2013

109000 mi

US $400
New noise at 900-1100 rpm under load. No CEL. Turned out to be DISA valve on intake manifold. Apparently quite common on this m52tu (as the m54). Washer jets not spraying the windshield. Turned out to need a new pump. 
Jun 2014

123000 mi

US $1300
Horrible sounds, vibrations. Dual mass flywheel shot (springs). Cannot be recovered. Clutch worn but still material remaining. Replaced with a single mass flywheel & clutch, no change to driveability, saves money and potential to resurface Motor mounts found to be worn/leaking. Bracket cracked (not sure if due to mileage or hitting concrete parking dividers). 
BMW 5-Series in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2011 - Mar 2013
Jul 2012

121800 mi

US $212
Freon low in the AC system, going to check back in next week to see if there are any leaks in the system. Filters were changed and system was recharged. 
BMW 5-Series in North Carolina, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2015
Jun 2010

131000 mi

US $1525
A engine pulley locked up, broke main belt and caused the Radiator to overheat and crack. 
Jun 2015

196000 mi

US $1200
Drive shaft was replaced, 5-speed shifter linkage was also tighten up. 

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2003 BMW 5-Series Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2003 BMW 5-Series problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.